Hunter x Hunter: Nen Impact, the anticipated fighting game, has been banned in Australia by the Australian Classification Board, receiving a Refused Classification rating. This decision, made on December 1st, came without explanation.
Hunter x Hunter: Nen Impact Blocked from Australian Release
Refused Classification Rating
The Refused Classification (RC) rating prohibits the sale, rental, advertisement, and import of the game within Australia. The board stated that the content surpasses the acceptable limits of even the R18+ and X18+ ratings.While the criteria for an RC rating are established, the decision regarding Hunter x Hunter: Nen Impact is surprising. The game's launch trailer doesn't depict explicit sexual content, graphic violence, or drug use; it appears as a standard fighting game. However, unseen content may exist, or potential technical issues may require correction.
Appealing the Decision: A Path Forward
Australia's history with game bans and subsequent reversals is well-documented. The Classification Board has a track record of reviewing decisions. Games like The Witcher 2: Assassins of Kings initially received RC ratings but were later reclassified after modifications.
The board is open to reconsidering its decisions if developers make changes to address concerns. Examples include Disco Elysium: The Final Cut (drug use depiction) and Outlast 2 (removal of a sexual violence scene), both successfully securing ratings after revisions.
The Australian ban doesn't necessarily signal the end for Hunter x Hunter: Nen Impact in Australia. The developer or publisher can appeal the decision by providing content justifications or implementing modifications to meet classification standards. The possibility of a future release remains.
