Hunter x Hunter: Nen Impact Banned in Australia: A Mystery Unfolds
The Australian Classification Board's refusal to classify Hunter x Hunter: Nen Impact, effectively banning it from Australian release, has sent shockwaves through the gaming community. The December 1st decision, issued with no explanation, leaves gamers and developers alike questioning the reasons behind this surprising ban.
A Refused Classification: What Does It Mean?
The "Refused Classification" (RC) rating means the game is prohibited from sale, rental, advertisement, or import within Australia. The board's statement indicates the content surpasses the acceptable limits of even the R18+ and X18+ ratings, exceeding generally accepted community standards.
This is perplexing, given the game's seemingly innocuous promotional material. The official trailer shows typical fighting game fare, devoid of explicit sexual content, graphic violence, or drug use. However, the possibility remains that unshown content within the game triggered the RC rating. Alternatively, clerical errors might be the culprit, potentially correctable for a future classification appeal.
Australia's Classification Board: A History of Bans and Appeals
Australia's classification history reveals a pattern of initial bans followed by overturned decisions. Games like Pocket Gal 2 and The Witcher 2: Assassins of Kings faced initial bans due to sexual content, but revisions led to reclassifications.
The board has demonstrated a willingness to reconsider its rulings if developers make adjustments. Disco Elysium: The Final Cut's initial RC, due to drug use depiction, was overturned after the board deemed the portrayal acceptable due to its focus on negative consequences. Similarly, modifications to Outlast 2, removing a scene of sexual violence, allowed for an R18+ rating.
Hope Remains for Hunter x Hunter: Nen Impact
The ban isn't necessarily a death sentence for Hunter x Hunter: Nen Impact in Australia. The developer or publisher can appeal the decision by providing content justifications or implementing changes to align with Australian classification standards. This could involve removing or censoring specific elements deemed problematic.
The lack of explanation from the board adds to the intrigue, leaving the gaming community awaiting further developments and clarification on the specific reasons behind the ban.
