Hunter x Hunter: Nen Impact Banned in Australia: A Surprising Refusal
The Australian Classification Board's recent decision to refuse classification for the upcoming fighting game, Hunter x Hunter: Nen Impact, has sent shockwaves through the gaming community. The December 1st ruling effectively bans the game's sale, distribution, and advertisement within Australia. The Board offered no specific reasoning for this Refused Classification (RC) rating.
This RC rating signifies that the game's content surpasses the acceptable limits of even the R 18+ and X 18+ categories. While the general criteria for an RC rating are well-established, the decision is surprising given the game's seemingly innocuous promotional material. The official trailer showed typical fighting game fare, lacking explicit sexual content, graphic violence, or drug use.
However, the absence of overt problematic content in the trailer doesn't preclude the possibility of such material within the full game. Alternatively, the refusal might stem from administrative or technical issues correctable through revisions.
A History of Reclassification and Second Chances
Australia's classification board isn't unfamiliar with controversial decisions and subsequent reversals. Numerous games have faced bans, only to be later reclassified after modifications or further review. The board has demonstrated a willingness to reconsider its rulings if developers address concerns through content adjustments or provide compelling justifications.
Past examples include The Witcher 2: Assassins of Kings and Disco Elysium: The Final Cut, both initially refused classification but later approved after revisions. Similarly, Outlast 2 secured an R18+ rating after removing a scene of sexual violence. This demonstrates the possibility of successfully appealing an RC rating by either mitigating explicit content or removing sensitive elements.
Hope Remains for Hunter x Hunter: Nen Impact
The Australian Classification Board's decision doesn't necessarily signal the definitive end for Hunter x Hunter: Nen Impact in Australia. The developer or publisher retains the opportunity to appeal the decision by providing content justifications or implementing necessary modifications to meet classification standards. The future of the game in Australia hinges on their response to the board's refusal.
