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Pokemon Banned in Saudi Arabia

The commerce ministry in Saudi Arabia has banned Pokemon, video and card games on the grounds that they promote gambling and un-Islamic teachings.

Game Developer, Staff

April 4, 2001

1 Min Read

The ministry's decision notes that collecting and trading Pokemon cards is a form of gambling and that the games violate Islamic teachings by promoting Darwin's theory of evolution. The decision also points out that some Pokemon materials feature religious images including the Star of David, Christian crosses and symbols of Japanese Shintoism. Pokemon games and toys already in the Saudi Arabia are to be seized and all imports of Pokemon games and goods bearing Pokemon will be blocked.

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