Singapore has lifted the ban on "Mass Effect", an Xbox video game alleged to contain a 'scene of lesbian intimacy', clearing decks for the state's media watchdog aka the Media Development Authority (MDA) to give the game a 'M18' rating.

Which means only people over 18 years of age will be able to purchase the game legally. All said, this is the first time Singapore has given any rating whatsoever to a video game. That too before the much-awaited video games classification system comes in place in January next year.

The Board of Film Censors' ban on "Mass Effect", following allegations of a lesbian scene showing two female characters (one human, the other alien) kissing and caressing; was reported by the local media last Thursday.

A public outcry followed, forcing the government's hand at lifting the ban.

Singapore may be South East Asia's most advanced economy but is known to retain a conservative core. The country's laws require video games to be devoid of exploitative sex and violence, as also not denigrate any race or religion.

Now that the ban has been lifted, and the controversial game rated, the Board of Film Censors has issued a statement saying it will selectively use games ratings to allow highly anticipated games to be launched in Singapore -- before the ratings system is in place.

Meanwhile, "Mass Effect" is slated for a global launch this week.