Manhunt 2 has been banned by the BBFC in the UK, making it illegal to supply it anywhere in the UK. Both the PS2 and Wii versions of the game were banned with the BBFC unable to recommend cuts or modifications to remove the offending material. The last game to be banned by the BBFC was Carmageddon, banned 10 years ago in 1997 this decision was subsequently overturned on appeal. Publisher Rockstar do still have the right to appeal against this decision.

Director of the BBFC, David Cooke, commented that “Rejecting a work is a very serious action and one which we do not take lightly. Where possible we try to consider cuts or, in the case of games, modifications which remove the material which contravenes the Board’s published Guidelines. In the case of Manhunt 2 this has not been possible.”

Bleak and callous

According to Cooke, “Manhunt 2 is distinguishable from recent high-end video games by its unremitting bleakness and callousness of tone in an overall game context which constantly encourages visceral killing with exceptionally little alleviation or distancing. There is sustained and cumulative casual sadism in the way in which these killings are committed, and encouraged, in the game.”

The BBFC believe that Manhunt’s sequel is more brutal than the original title which was classified 18 in 2003. “Although the difference should not be exaggerated the fact of the game’s unrelenting focus on stalking and brutal slaying and the sheer lack of alternative pleasures on offer to the gamer, together with the different overall narrative context, contribute towards differentiating this submission from the original Manhunt game.”

Unjustifiable harm risk to adults and minors

“Against this background, the Board’s carefully considered view is that to issue a certificate to Manhunt 2, on either platform, would involve a range of unjustifiable harm risks, to both adults and minors, within the terms of the Video Recordings Act, and accordingly that its availability, even if statutorily confined to adults, would be unacceptable to the public.”

Paul Jackson, Director General of ELSPA, has supported the BBFC’s decision. “A decision from the BBFC such as this demonstrates that we have a games ratings system in the UK that is effective. It shows it works and works well.” Jackson went on to state that “The games industry is a creative phenomenon that produces all kinds of games across all kinds of genres that appeal to all kinds of people across the country, young and old, male and female. The important thing to know is that all games are rated according to age suitability, with over 70 per cent of games being available to all ages over three years.”

Rockstar’s reaction

Rockstar Games was reported as being disappointed with the BBFC’s decision to refuse classification of Manhunt 2, effectively banning sales of the game in the UK, believing adult consumers should be entitled to decide on any game’s content by themselves. A statement by the publishers read “Manhunt 2 is an entertainment experience for fans of psychological thrillers and horror. The subject matter of this game is in line with other mainstream entertainment choices for adult consumers.”

“We respect those who have different opinions about the horror genre and videogames as a whole, but we hope they will also consider the opinions of the adult gamers for whom this product is intended. We believe all products should be rated to allow the public to make informed choices about the media and art they wish to consume. The stories in modern videogames are as diverse as the stories in books, film and television. The adult consumers who would play this game fully understand that it is fictional interactive entertainment and nothing more.”

Watch this space. With Rockstar sure to appeal against the decision, it looks like the fun has just begun.