Hunter x Hunter: Nen Impact Banned in Australia: A Mystery Unfolds

The Australian Classification Board's refusal to classify Hunter x Hunter: Nen Impact, resulting in a ban, has sent shockwaves through the gaming community. The decision, delivered on December 1st, came without explanation, leaving fans and developers alike bewildered. This unexpected rejection raises questions about the game's content and the future of its Australian release.

A Refused Classification (RC) rating means the game is prohibited from sale, rental, advertisement, or import within Australia. The board's statement cited content exceeding the limits of even the R18+ and X18+ categories, implying material outside generally accepted community standards.

This is particularly surprising given the seemingly innocuous nature of the game's promotional materials. The official trailer showcased typical fighting game fare, devoid of explicit sexual content, graphic violence, or drug use. However, undisclosed elements within the game itself may have triggered the ban. Alternatively, minor, correctable issues could be the cause.

Past Precedents and Paths Forward

Australia's classification board isn't unfamiliar with controversy and reversals. Numerous games have faced similar bans, only to be re-evaluated and approved after modifications. Examples include Pocket Gal 2, initially banned for nudity and sexual content, and The Witcher 2: Assassins of Kings, which underwent edits to secure an MA 15+ rating. Even titles like Disco Elysium: The Final Cut and Outlast 2 received initial RC ratings, later overturned after content adjustments addressing drug use and sexual violence respectively.

This precedent suggests hope for Hunter x Hunter: Nen Impact. The developers have the option to appeal the decision by providing justification for the content or making alterations to align with Australian classification standards. By addressing concerns, potentially through censorship or clarification, the game may yet find its way to Australian gamers. The lack of a specific reason for the ban leaves the door open for a potential resolution. The future of Hunter x Hunter: Nen Impact in Australia remains uncertain, but the possibility of a reversal isn't entirely out of the question.