In a notable move, Kuwait has banned Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, a highly anticipated title set for global release this Friday by Microsoft-owned Activision. The decision, though not publicly confirmed by Kuwaiti authorities, reportedly stems from the game’s depiction of Saddam Hussein and elements of the 1990s Gulf War—a conflict with deep historical and emotional weight in the country.
The latest installment in the franchise features CIA operatives in combat scenarios set in the United States and the Middle East. Trailers showcase scenes that hit close to home for Kuwaitis, such as oilfields ablaze, a stark reminder of the over 700 Kuwaiti oil wells set on fire by retreating Iraqi forces in 1991, leading to catastrophic environmental and economic impacts. The game includes references to Iraq’s past symbols, such as Saddam Hussein and the country’s old three-star flag, along with multiplayer maps named Scud, a nod to the missiles Saddam fired, and Babylon, referencing Iraq’s ancient city.
Activision addressed the situation in a statement, stating, “Black Ops 6 has not been approved for release in Kuwait.” The company confirmed that all Kuwaiti pre-orders would be refunded, adding, “We remain hopeful that local authorities will reconsider, allowing players in Kuwait to enjoy this all-new experience in the Black Ops series.”
This is not the first instance of geopolitics affecting the franchise’s distribution. Past entries in Call of Duty have faced bans in countries like China and Russia, with controversial scenes such as the 2009 installment that allowed players to participate in a militant attack on a Russian airport.
Conversely, other games exploring Middle Eastern history and culture have found positive reception. Ubisoft’s Assassin’s Creed: Mirage, released last year, garnered acclaim for its immersive portrayal of 9th-century Baghdad during the Islamic Golden Age, illustrating the complexities and challenges developers face when tackling sensitive historical themes in video games.
