Teachers are calling for a ban on a new Tamagotchi game featuring a young triad hero from a popular comic strip.
The new variation on the 'virtual pet' deals with a young boy, Ho Nam, who must be fed alcohol and cigarettes in order to mature as a triad member. It is expected to go on sale next month.
The scenario is based on the popular weekly comic Young Triads, or Ku Hwa Chai, chronicling the adventures and sexual exploits of Chan Ho-nam.
The toy is produced by the comic's publisher, King's Fountain Ltd. Administrative manager Paul Chu said the company was considering changing alcohol and cigarettes to junk food to avoid controversy.
However, game options such as knife fights were being considered, he added.
'We target a specific audience. If it's judged by the authorities that it's only for people over 18, then we will follow the law. But you can't pass moral judgment before we know how players will react to the game,' he said.