According to the Federal Trade Commission's recent reports, 22% less illegal M-rated video game sales to minors were made this year. This, of course, comes right on the heels of the expectedly backlashed Grand Theft Auto IV.

The research was conducted by sending 'secret shoppers' out to each of the main game retail outlets (Gamestop/EB Games being the biggest) and notating the occurrences in which the shoppers (aged 13-16) were able to obtain an M-rated game. Only 20% of them were able to, whereas in 2006 42% were able to, and 69% in 2003 (remember those days?). Gamestop performed best, turning away 94% of the minors (maybe the 6% were wearing fake beards). Walmart stopped 82%, Best Buy, 80%. Hollywood Video and Circuit City performed worst, with 60% and 62% turnaway rates, respectively.

Below you can see data for other mediums included in the research data: