Hunter x Hunter: Nen Impact Abruptly Removed Down Under

Hunter x Hunter: Nen Impact Banned in Australia – Unjustified Refusal

The Australian Classification Board unexpectedly banned Hunter x Hunter: Nen Impact, assigning it a Refused Classification rating on December 1st. This decision, made without explanation, prevents the game's sale, distribution, and advertisement within Australia.

A Refused Classification signifies content deemed unacceptable by Australian community standards, exceeding even the R 18+ and X 18+ rating parameters. This is surprising, given the game's official trailer shows typical fighting game fare, devoid of explicit sexual content, graphic violence, or drug use.

While unseen content might justify the ban, the lack of transparency raises concerns. The possibility of correctable errors also exists.

Australia's Classification Board History and Potential for Appeal

Australia has a history of game bans, with past examples including Pocket Gal 2 and The Witcher 2: Assassins of Kings, both initially refused classification due to sexual content. However, the board has shown willingness to overturn decisions following content modifications or justifications.

Games like Disco Elysium: The Final Cut (initially banned for drug use) and Outlast 2 (modified to remove sexual violence) demonstrate this flexibility. By addressing or removing problematic content, developers can often secure a revised rating.

The Future of Hunter x Hunter: Nen Impact in Australia

The ban on Hunter x Hunter: Nen Impact isn't necessarily final. The developer or publisher can appeal the decision by providing content justifications or making necessary modifications to align with Australian classification standards. The outcome hinges on the specific reasons behind the Refused Classification, which remain undisclosed. The lack of given reasons leaves the door open for potential future release, pending further review and potential adjustments by the developers.