"Hunter x Hunter: Nen Impact Banned in Australia Without Explanation"

The Australian Classification Board has issued a surprising decision by banning Hunter x Hunter: Nen Impact, assigning it a Refused Classification rating. This unexpected move has left fans curious about the game's future in Australia. Let's delve deeper into this issue and explore potential pathways forward.

Hunter x Hunter Not Releasing in Australia

Rated with Refused Classification

A Refused Classification rating means that the product "cannot be sold, hired, advertised, or legally imported in Australia." The board further explains that content rated RC "contains content that is outside generally-accepted community standards and exceeds what can be included in the R 18+ and X 18+ ratings."

While the criteria for a Refused Classification are well-established, the decision regarding Hunter x Hunter: Nen Impact seems puzzling. The game's official introduction trailer did not showcase any sexually explicit scenes, graphic violence, or drug use, presenting itself as a typical fighting game.

However, it's possible that the game contains elements not visible in the trailer, or there might be clerical errors that could be rectified in future submissions.

The Australian Classification Board is Open to Second Chances

Australia has a history of initially banning games only to later reconsider their ratings. Since 1996, numerous games have faced bans, starting with Pocket Gal 2 due to its content involving sexual activity and nudity. Even high-profile titles like The Witcher 2: Assassins of Kings received a Refused Classification initially, but after editing a side quest, it was reclassified to MA 15+.

Despite its stringent standards, the Australian Classification Board is willing to reassess decisions if games are modified, censored, or if their content is justified appropriately. For instance, Disco Elysium: The Final Cut was initially refused classification because of its depiction of drug use, but after demonstrating the negative consequences of such activity, it was deemed acceptable.

Similarly, Outlast 2 was able to secure an R18+ rating after modifying a scene involving sexual violence. By addressing or removing sensitive content, developers have successfully appealed Refused Classification rulings.

This isn't the end of the line for Hunter x Hunter: Nen Impact in Australia. The developers or publishers have the opportunity to appeal the decision by justifying the game's content or making necessary modifications to comply with the classification standards.