Hunter x Hunter: Nen Impact Banned in Australia, No Reason Given
- By Alexis
- Jan 21,2025
Hunter x Hunter: Nen Impact, the anticipated fighting game, has been banned in Australia by the Australian Classification Board, receiving a Refused Classification rating on December 1st. The board offered no explanation for this decision.
Hunter x Hunter: Nen Impact Banned in Australia - No Official Reason Given
Refused Classification: A Ban on Australian Release
This Refused Classification means the game cannot be sold, rented, advertised, or imported legally into Australia. The board's statement indicates the content violates generally accepted community standards, exceeding the limits of even the R 18+ and X 18+ ratings.While the criteria for a Refused Classification are generally well-defined, 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, the game may contain unseen content that triggered the ban. Alternatively, there might be administrative errors that could be rectified.
A Second Chance: The Australian Classification Board's History
Australia has a history of game bans and subsequent reversals. From 1996 onwards, numerous titles have faced bans, including Pocket Gal 2 and initially, The Witcher 2: Assassins of Kings, both for sexual content. However, The Witcher 2 eventually received an MA 15+ rating after modifications.
Despite its stringent standards, the board is receptive to appeals. Games can be re-evaluated following edits, censorship, or compelling justifications. Disco Elysium: The Final Cut, initially banned for its depiction of drug use, was later approved after its portrayal of the negative consequences was deemed acceptable.
Similarly, Outlast 2 secured an R18+ rating after removing a scene of sexual violence. By addressing explicit content or removing sensitive material, developers can often overturn Refused Classifications.
The Australian ban doesn't necessarily signal the end for Hunter x Hunter: Nen Impact. The developer or publisher can appeal by providing context for the content or making adjustments to meet classification guidelines.
