Anthem error on EA computer game

David Rowney
BBC News

Home nations get to go all the way in computer game

They didn't make it this year, but in the computer game Euro 2008 by Electronic Arts, the boys finally got to go to the Euros.

The Northern Ireland football team line up for the beginning of Euro 2008 and wait for the national anthem to sing out. But it's not 'God Save The Queen', it's 'Danny Boy'.

After the initial annoyance you control the boys to a win.

But as you bath in the victory you find yourself serenaded by 'The Soldier's Song', the Republic of Ireland's national anthem.

Some Northern Ireland gamers have expressed their views on internet forums and are urging EA to heed the fact that "Northern Ireland remains part of the UK".

"I'm from Northern Ireland and I'm shocked," wrote one fan.

"So Northern Ireland has no identity now I suppose."

However Shaun White said: "At EA SPORTS, we pride ourselves on delivering rich and authentic videogame experiences. We sincerely apologise for this error."

The game may seem politically unrefined to be charging £39.99 but its makers say it offers interactive celebrations, dynamic rain and mud, and excitable team managers on the sideline as well.