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'Stingy Jew' game taken off TV site

March 22, 2012 16:00

By

Benjamin Weinthal,

Benjamin Weinthal

1 min read

The Dutch public broadcasting network VPRO removed an antisemitic computer game from its website last week after coming under strong criticism.

The game, "The Settlers of the West Bank", based on the multi-player hit "The Settlers of Catan", was offered as a download on the VPRO site.

Players of the Dutch game can use a "Jewish stinginess" card or "the Anne Frank card" to colonise the West Bank. A VPRO representative denied antisemitism, claiming that the game was merely satire.

In the game, the user plays a settler trying to expand his community, mine diamonds and Dead Sea mud, and produce textiles. Players can use the "Jewish stinginess" card to force competitors to hand over resources. The instructions refer to the "nation's typical mercantile spirit".