EA has today announced that the Taliban won't be playable in multiplayer after all - citing respect for allied military personal as the reason.

"This is a voice that has earned the right to be listened to. It is a voice that we care deeply about," explained executive producer Greg Goodrich. "Because of this, and because the heartbeat of Medal of Honor has always resided in the reverence for American and Allied soldiers, we have decided to rename the opposing team in Medal of Honor multiplayer from Taliban to Opposing Force."

Sounds a lot like the enemy force will retain the same visuals, albeit with a name change from "Taliban" to "Opposing Force". No biggie.

More from Goodich after the jump.

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Medal of Honor executive producer Greg Goodrich explained the decision in detail over on the Medal of Honor blog.

"In the past few months, we have received feedback from all over the world regarding the multiplayer portion of Medal of Honor. We?ve received notes from gamers, active military, and friends and family of servicemen and women currently deployed overseas. The majority of this feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. For this, the Medal of Honor team is deeply appreciative.

"However, we have also received feedback from friends and families of fallen soldiers who have expressed concern over the inclusion of the Taliban in the multiplayer portion of our game. This is a very important voice to the Medal of Honor team. This is a voice that has earned the right to be listened to. It is a voice that we care deeply about. Because of this, and because the heartbeat of Medal of Honor has always resided in the reverence for American and Allied soldiers, we have decided to rename the opposing team in Medal of Honor multiplayer from Taliban to Opposing Force.

"While this change should not directly affect gamers, as it does not fundamentally alter the gameplay, we are making this change for the men and women serving in the military and for the families of those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice ? this franchise will never willfully disrespect, intentionally or otherwise, your memory and service.

"To all who serve ? we appreciate you, we thank you, and we do not take you for granted. And to the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines currently serving overseas, stay safe and come home soon."

Another defeat for free speech in the west, well done the western political version of the Taliban.