Apple has reversed its position not to allow a game by Palestinian developer into the App store.
The iPhone maker had previously said that Liyla and the Shadows of War could not be categorised as a game because of its political nature. Conversely, Apple has allowed Israeli Heroes – an Angry Birds-alike featuring cartoon missiles – to be categorised as a game since October 2013.
Following an online outcry, the company has relaxed its stance on Liyla. "Just happening: Apple reconsider its decision, they will publish Liyla as a Game. Thanks to all of you," the game's developer, Rasheed Abueidah, tweeted.
WIRED contacted Apple but had not received a response at the time of publication.
While heavily stylised – the game takes place at night, in shadows, as players avoid drones and missiles while attempting to guide a family to safety – Abueidah says Liyla is inspired by true events. "I'm a father of two kids, I can't imagine my life without them, but in Palestine nobody is safe," Abueidah says. "When the war started in Gaza and I saw the images of the killed kids in their parents hands I was shocked, I had a weird feeling, it's a combination of sadness, fear, empathy and anger, All what I was thinking of is 'what if this happened to me'." "I have chosen to share those feelings in a game to deliver a message of how we are living as Palestinians under this situation," he adds. "It's Not Just a Game, It's a case and call for help."
The game can once again be found in iTunes' games section, and is available for iPhone or iPad for free.
This article was originally published by WIRED UK
