Posted on 09/29/2003 3:29:06 PM PDT by blam
CIA combats terror with 'bin Laden' video game
CIA agents are to become make-believe terror chiefs by playing a new video game devised to make them think more like Osama bin Laden.
The CIA's Counter Terrorist Centre is developing the computer game which will help agents adopt the mindset of a terrorist.
With other agents cast as themselves, or law enforcement officials, they will compete with each other on the multi-million pound simulation.
The CIA said the idea is to help its agents "think outside the box".
A spokesman said: "For out-of-the-box thinking, we are reaching out to academics, think tanks and external research institutes that are critical in the fight against terrorism.
"If it will help us to prevent terrorist attacks, it is worthwhile," he said.
But military sources were quoted condemning the idea as "absurd".
Players of the game will be able to adopt the role of a terrorist leader, like Osama bin Laden, or a terrorist fixer or money mover, and will attempt to wreak havoc.
Opponents will take on the role of a CIA analyst, or law enforcement agent and bid to thwart their efforts.
The project is a joint collaboration between the CTC, which faced criticism after the September 11 terror attacks, and the Los Angeles-based Institute for Creative Technologies.
The institute is part of the University of Southern California. The CIA would not disclose the exact cost of the project.
Story filed: 14:18 Monday 29th September 2003
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