The news that the BBFC had banned Rockstar Games’ Manhunt 2 in the UK has caused waves among the gaming community. The BBFC banned both the PS2 and Wii versions of Manhunt 2 earlier this week, earning the controversial game the title of second game to be refused classification in the UK. The last game to be refused classification by the BBFC was Carmageddon ten years ago.

Dubbed by the BBFC to be unremittingly bleak and callous, casually sadistic as well as focusing unrelentingly on stalking and brutal slaying, the BBFC slapped a ban on it and effectively sent it out to pasture. Essentially this ban makes it illegal for the game to be supplied anywhere in the UK. The BBFC went on to state that to issue a certificate to Manhunt 2 on either the Wii or PS2 would result in ‘a range of unjustifiable harm risks, to both adults and minors.’

Taking away the right to decide

The reaction to the ban has been overwhelming and, although somewhat divided, most gamers have reacted with shock that the BBFC has taken the right for gamers to decide what games are offensive away from them. Many commented that they would protest against this decision, stating that not only kids played games and encouraging other gamers to swamp the BBFC with complaints about this decision. Many have realized that this ban will only boost sales of Manhunt 2, citing the initial ban on Manhunt which caused sales to soar as well as GTA, which is a case in point. High profile censorship cases result in higher sales, period.

There are also those gamers who have come out in support of the BBFC’s decision, expressing concern over why games such as Manhunt even exist. And you have to agree, they raise a valid point.

Keen to find out more? Head over to EL33TONLINE’s earlier article about the BBFC’s decision to ban Manhunt 2 in the UK.