Hunter x Hunter: Nen Impact Banned in Australia, No Reason Given

Hunter x Hunter: Nen Impact, the anticipated fighting game, has been banned in Australia by the Australian Classification Board, receiving a Refused Classification rating. This decision, made on December 1st, was issued without explanation.

Hunter x Hunter: Nen Impact Blocked in Australia

Refused Classification Rating

While the reasons for RC ratings are generally clear, this decision is surprising. The game's promotional trailer doesn't depict explicit sexual content, graphic violence, or drug use—elements typically associated with RC ratings. However, unshown content within the game might be the cause. Alternatively, correctable errors could be responsible for the initial rejection.

A Second Chance is Possible

Australia's classification board has a history of both banning and later reversing decisions on games. Past examples include Pocket Gal 2 and The Witcher 2: Assassins of Kings, both initially refused classification but later re-evaluated after modifications.

The board is receptive to appeals, particularly if developers adjust content to meet classification standards. This could involve removing or censoring problematic elements or providing sufficient justification for their inclusion. Games like Disco Elysium: The Final Cut and Outlast 2 successfully navigated this process after making changes to address concerns about drug use and sexual violence, respectively.

The Australian ban on Hunter x Hunter: Nen Impact isn't necessarily final. The developers may still appeal the decision by modifying the game or providing a compelling argument for its content. The outcome remains uncertain, but the possibility of a future release in Australia remains open.