Australia Bans Hunter x Hunter: Nen Impact

Hunter x Hunter: Nen Impact, the anticipated fighting game, has been banned in Australia by the Australian Classification Board, receiving a Refused Classification (RC) rating on December 1st. The board offered no explanation for this surprising decision.

Hunter x Hunter: Nen Impact Banned Down Under

Refused Classification: A Ban in Australia

While the reasons for an RC rating are generally well-defined, the decision regarding Hunter x Hunter: Nen Impact is unexpected. The game's launch trailer contains no overt sexual content, graphic violence, or drug use; it appears as a standard fighting game.

However, unclassified content within the game might exist beyond the trailer's preview. Alternatively, the refusal might stem from administrative errors correctable before a future classification review.

Second Chances and Appeals: A History of Overruled Bans

Australia has a history of game bans and subsequent reversals. From 1996 onwards, numerous titles have faced initial bans, including Pocket Gal 2 and The Witcher 2: Assassins of Kings, both initially banned for sexual content. The Witcher 2 later received an MA 15+ rating after modifications.

The Classification Board demonstrates a willingness to reconsider its decisions if developers make adjustments. For example, Disco Elysium: The Final Cut's initial RC rating, due to drug use depiction, was overturned after the board deemed the game's portrayal of the negative consequences acceptable.

Similarly, Outlast 2 secured an R18+ rating after removing a scene depicting sexual violence. By mitigating explicit content or removing sensitive material, developers can often successfully appeal RC rulings.

The Australian ban on Hunter x Hunter: Nen Impact isn't necessarily final. The developer or publisher can appeal the decision by justifying the content or making changes to align with classification guidelines.