Hunter x Hunter: Nen Impact, the anticipated fighting game, has been banned in Australia by the Australian Classification Board, receiving a Refused Classification rating. The decision, issued December 1st, lacked any explanation.
Hunter x Hunter: Nen Impact Blocked from Australian Release
Refused Classification Rating
This Refused Classification prevents the game's sale, rental, advertisement, or import into Australia. The board stated the content violates generally accepted community standards, exceeding the limits of even the R 18+ and X 18+ ratings.While the reasons for Refused Classification are usually clear, this decision is surprising. The game's launch trailer showed no explicit content, graphic violence, or drug use; it appeared to be a standard fighting game. However, unseen content may exist, or there might be correctable errors.
A Chance for Reconsideration
Australia has a history of banning games, sometimes later overturning those decisions. The Classification Board's past actions show a willingness to reconsider rulings if games undergo edits or content justifications. Games like The Witcher 2: Assassins of Kings and Disco Elysium: The Final Cut saw their initial bans overturned after modifications. Similarly, Outlast 2 secured an R18+ rating after removing a scene.
Therefore, the Australian ban on Hunter x Hunter: Nen Impact isn't necessarily final. The developer or publisher could appeal by providing content justifications or making changes to meet classification standards. The possibility of a future release in Australia remains open.
