EA has reversed it's decision on the Taliban appearing in Medal of Honor, in name anyway. You can still play as the enemy, but they will now be called Opposing Forces. This is a total reversal of opinions from EA who earlier this year said there was no way they back down and change their minds on the controversial decision to include the Taliban name in the game.

Here is what EA has to say about their turn around:

In the past few months, we have received feedback from all over the world regarding the multi-player 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 multi-player 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 multi-player from Taliban to Opposing Force.

While this change should not directly affect gamers, as it does not fundamentally alter the game-play, 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. Greg Goodrich Executive Producer Medal of Honor.

Seems like a positive move for EA, although controversy can sometimes make a game more appealing to some. The fact that the actual game-play itself means there will be no delay for the game. It will be interesting how this will play out for EA in the coming weeks. Stay tuned.