Manhunt 2 Banned
Illegal for Rockstar to sell the game in the UK. First ban for family-friendly Wii release?
News just breaking is that Rockstar’s upcoming splatter-fest, Manhunt 2, has been rejected by the British Board of Film Classification (BBFC), which means it cannot legally be supplied anywhere in the UK.
The BBFC’s decision to ban sales of the game in the UK is only the second time that the organisation has rejected a game – the first being Carmageddon way back in 1997, a decision that was overturned by the Video Appeals Committee.
That decision also garnered a lot of high value free publicity for what was a very average videogame. Are we to see a repeat of that in this case?
“Rejecting a work is a very serious action and one which we do not take lightly,” BBFC director David Cooke stated. “Where possible we try to consider cuts or, in the case of games, modifications which remove the material which contravenes the Board’s published Guidelines. In the case of Manhunt 2 this has not been possible. Manhunt 2 is distinguishable from recent high-end video games by its unremitting bleakness and callousness of tone in an overall game context which constantly encourages visceral killing with exceptionally little alleviation or distancing.
“There is sustained and cumulative casual sadism in the way in which these killings are committed, and encouraged, in the game.
“Although the difference should not be exaggerated the fact of the game’s unrelenting focus on stalking and brutal slaying and the sheer lack of alternative pleasures on offer to the gamer, together with the different overall narrative context, contribute towards differentiating this submission from the original Manhunt game.
“That work was classified ‘18’ in 2003, before the BBFC’s recent games research had been undertaken, but was already at the very top end of what the Board judged to be acceptable at that category.
“Against this background, the Board’s carefully considered view is that to issue a certificate to Manhunt 2, on either platform, would involve a range of unjustifiable harm risks, to both adults and minors, within the terms of the Video Recordings Act, and accordingly that its availability, even if statutorily confined to adults, would be unacceptable to the public.”
See SPOnG’s recent preview of the game right here.
SPOnG has contacted Rockstar, the BBFC and ELSPA for further comment on the news. Stay tuned for updates throughout the day.
source: MCV
The BBFC’s decision to ban sales of the game in the UK is only the second time that the organisation has rejected a game – the first being Carmageddon way back in 1997, a decision that was overturned by the Video Appeals Committee.
That decision also garnered a lot of high value free publicity for what was a very average videogame. Are we to see a repeat of that in this case?
“Rejecting a work is a very serious action and one which we do not take lightly,” BBFC director David Cooke stated. “Where possible we try to consider cuts or, in the case of games, modifications which remove the material which contravenes the Board’s published Guidelines. In the case of Manhunt 2 this has not been possible. Manhunt 2 is distinguishable from recent high-end video games by its unremitting bleakness and callousness of tone in an overall game context which constantly encourages visceral killing with exceptionally little alleviation or distancing.
“There is sustained and cumulative casual sadism in the way in which these killings are committed, and encouraged, in the game.
“Although the difference should not be exaggerated the fact of the game’s unrelenting focus on stalking and brutal slaying and the sheer lack of alternative pleasures on offer to the gamer, together with the different overall narrative context, contribute towards differentiating this submission from the original Manhunt game.
“That work was classified ‘18’ in 2003, before the BBFC’s recent games research had been undertaken, but was already at the very top end of what the Board judged to be acceptable at that category.
“Against this background, the Board’s carefully considered view is that to issue a certificate to Manhunt 2, on either platform, would involve a range of unjustifiable harm risks, to both adults and minors, within the terms of the Video Recordings Act, and accordingly that its availability, even if statutorily confined to adults, would be unacceptable to the public.”
See SPOnG’s recent preview of the game right here.
SPOnG has contacted Rockstar, the BBFC and ELSPA for further comment on the news. Stay tuned for updates throughout the day.
source: MCV
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Comments
Dreadknux 19 Jun 2007 11:26
1/20
I bet you any money it was the immersive functions of the Wii version that did it.
Bentley 19 Jun 2007 11:50
2/20
Boooo! Ban the BBFC. As a 33 year old man with his head firmly screwed on, I find it DEEPLY insulting that some toff in a box can tell me what games I can and can't play.
And I very much doubt that the disturbing nature of Manhunt is nowhere near as bad as films such as Hostel and Wolf Creek, which are just violent for the sake of violence, while Manhunt is (as far as I know) a comment on violence in games. OK, so it's gruesome but the graphics are hardly realistic, it's OBVIOUS you're just playing a game. And it is a game I'd want to play, because the last one was tense and exciting. I can assure you I have not stabbed anyone in the eye with a glass shard since playing it, and I don't intend to.
Get a grip BBFC, and stop pandering to the ill-informed knee-jerk reactionary Daily Mail readers in our society. We should focus on making sure 18 rated games are only available to those over 18, and NOT punish everyone including the mature, responsible adults who want to play them.
And I very much doubt that the disturbing nature of Manhunt is nowhere near as bad as films such as Hostel and Wolf Creek, which are just violent for the sake of violence, while Manhunt is (as far as I know) a comment on violence in games. OK, so it's gruesome but the graphics are hardly realistic, it's OBVIOUS you're just playing a game. And it is a game I'd want to play, because the last one was tense and exciting. I can assure you I have not stabbed anyone in the eye with a glass shard since playing it, and I don't intend to.
Get a grip BBFC, and stop pandering to the ill-informed knee-jerk reactionary Daily Mail readers in our society. We should focus on making sure 18 rated games are only available to those over 18, and NOT punish everyone including the mature, responsible adults who want to play them.
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Joji 19 Jun 2007 12:04
3/20
I find it funny that this happens just before the games release next month
The other funny thing is that Rockstar could surely appeal here. If the game is given an 18 rating, what's the problem. Rockstar could argue with other games as in a similar vein that have been passed, shouldn't have been either. Hopefully that Video Appeal Board will look at this again, because if Rockstar loose they are gonna loose so much money.
If it's the Wii version that's tipped things, this is now gonna cause a lot of gamers to be importing it from other PAL terroritories. Praise the lord for import gaming. Another nanny state crappy decision.
The other funny thing is that Rockstar could surely appeal here. If the game is given an 18 rating, what's the problem. Rockstar could argue with other games as in a similar vein that have been passed, shouldn't have been either. Hopefully that Video Appeal Board will look at this again, because if Rockstar loose they are gonna loose so much money.
If it's the Wii version that's tipped things, this is now gonna cause a lot of gamers to be importing it from other PAL terroritories. Praise the lord for import gaming. Another nanny state crappy decision.
Ditto 19 Jun 2007 12:41
4/20
On one level I agree with you guys that creative but violent games should not be stopped from sale to mentally-stable adults HOWEVER I think that we do need a vetting process and that banning games that are beyond what "the public" would consider acceptable and in good taste (and so that it doesn't disturb people) is equally as important.
I haven't played Manhunt 2 so I can't really comment on it. If the violence portrayed is as bad, but no worse, than films that have been released under the 18 classification, then I don't see a reason to ban, however if there is something in there that is so distrubing that the BBFC felt that it was not acceptable for this to be exposed to the public, then I'm inclined to say that they know best - remember that the BBFC has actually been amazingly fair to videogames in the past.
Ultimately in this situation I have trust that the BBFC know what they're doing and if they say it should be banned, and Rockstar loose an appeal, then I don't see an issue with this whatsoever.
I haven't played Manhunt 2 so I can't really comment on it. If the violence portrayed is as bad, but no worse, than films that have been released under the 18 classification, then I don't see a reason to ban, however if there is something in there that is so distrubing that the BBFC felt that it was not acceptable for this to be exposed to the public, then I'm inclined to say that they know best - remember that the BBFC has actually been amazingly fair to videogames in the past.
Ultimately in this situation I have trust that the BBFC know what they're doing and if they say it should be banned, and Rockstar loose an appeal, then I don't see an issue with this whatsoever.
dave 19 Jun 2007 13:26
5/20
In any society, you make a choice. You choose whether freedom of speech for everyone is more important than the petty whining of those who feel offense. Nobody should have the right to tell me, as an adult, what I can and cannot watch, any more than i should have the right to turn up at their house and splatter them with entrails. Censorship for the purposes of lower age classifications is just about acceptable (when done voluntarily for greater market penetration), but censorship of material intended for adults is a crime against every freedom we have achieved in our history. Noone is hurt when I play a violent videogame. Society is hurt when people claim the right to prevent me from doing so.
Joji 19 Jun 2007 13:55
6/20
I'm with you Dave, this is another nanny like decision to pander to those conservative people who don't play games, while reinforcing that stigma that games are for kids and not adults, when in truth they are for both.
Its been long known that the BBFC is made up of people who see more films than anything else like games, it could be said that this plays into their thinking when rating games. I could easily be wrong here though (do correct me someone).
Perhaps it might be an idea for Spong to ask the BBFC for an interview on this subject, and why it's okay film films like Hostel and Saw, but not games. I bet they'll play the interactivity card (which holds no weight as you would need to prove that link, that gamer A would go out and act out what he plays).
Perhaps Rockstar should have been smart and dropped the Manhunt name, then this wouldn't have attracted so much attention.
Its been long known that the BBFC is made up of people who see more films than anything else like games, it could be said that this plays into their thinking when rating games. I could easily be wrong here though (do correct me someone).
Perhaps it might be an idea for Spong to ask the BBFC for an interview on this subject, and why it's okay film films like Hostel and Saw, but not games. I bet they'll play the interactivity card (which holds no weight as you would need to prove that link, that gamer A would go out and act out what he plays).
Perhaps Rockstar should have been smart and dropped the Manhunt name, then this wouldn't have attracted so much attention.
Chris 19 Jun 2007 14:12
7/20
Will we be able to pick the game up from the US? is this the final say or will rockstar appeal against it?
Joji 19 Jun 2007 14:13
8/20
Adam, do you trust all national institutions because they are in positions of power? Did you trust the media to report on the Sony vs Church debate fairly? If the answer is no, then how on earth can you, fully trust that BBFC decision unless you get some tangible evidence to back up their decision, beyond a statement saying it's banned in the u.k?
So much questionable stuff out there in books (American Psycho, very dark which anyone can buy), films (Saw, Hostel, Wolf Creek, etc etc). If this game were being marketed at a teen market then fair enough. However Rockstar's games are aimed at an older audience, so that 18 cert should be enough to get it out there. Are us adults now children?
With plenty of real life violence going on in the world it now seems its a crime to escape reality and have fun. A shame for every adult out there if this ban stays intact. It possible this decision could also be influenced by the current climate concerning games (which always highlights the negative and ignores the positive).
So much questionable stuff out there in books (American Psycho, very dark which anyone can buy), films (Saw, Hostel, Wolf Creek, etc etc). If this game were being marketed at a teen market then fair enough. However Rockstar's games are aimed at an older audience, so that 18 cert should be enough to get it out there. Are us adults now children?
With plenty of real life violence going on in the world it now seems its a crime to escape reality and have fun. A shame for every adult out there if this ban stays intact. It possible this decision could also be influenced by the current climate concerning games (which always highlights the negative and ignores the positive).
Darkstar Orion 19 Jun 2007 14:20
9/20
F**k the BBFC
From a BBC article:
"The original Manhunt game caused huge controversy and was blamed for the murder of Stefan Pakeerah."
HOWEVER
"Police said robbery was the motive behind the attack on Stefan in Stokes Wood Park on 26 February 2004 - and not the video game blamed by Stefan's parents."
Yeah sorry, ignore the police who know the case BETTER THEN YOU DO YOU GRIVING BITCH, sorry blame it on manhunt. Not the fact that you let your son get involved with some pyshco.
If you don't like something, don't play it, watch it, or read it. Just F**K off, and leave the rest of us alone.
From a BBC article:
"The original Manhunt game caused huge controversy and was blamed for the murder of Stefan Pakeerah."
HOWEVER
"Police said robbery was the motive behind the attack on Stefan in Stokes Wood Park on 26 February 2004 - and not the video game blamed by Stefan's parents."
Yeah sorry, ignore the police who know the case BETTER THEN YOU DO YOU GRIVING BITCH, sorry blame it on manhunt. Not the fact that you let your son get involved with some pyshco.
If you don't like something, don't play it, watch it, or read it. Just F**K off, and leave the rest of us alone.
Joji 19 Jun 2007 14:57
10/20
You make a good point there, as I don't recall the police or media ever apologising about blaming Manhunt for the young lads death, when the same lad who died actually owned the game. Thus Manhunt has had a bad rep for no reason (despite being a bit cheesy gamewise).
Now Rockstar deserve an apology, (more than the Church vs Sony, ever did).
Because of this ban, our U.K allocation will end up in europe and australia. Use you rights and shop there.
Now Rockstar deserve an apology, (more than the Church vs Sony, ever did).
Because of this ban, our U.K allocation will end up in europe and australia. Use you rights and shop there.
Ditto 19 Jun 2007 16:13
11/20
Joji wrote:
Adam, do you trust all national institutions because they are in positions of power? Did you trust the media to report on the Sony vs Church debate fairly?
I rarely trust the media. All media is biased. Since when have media companies been an publically-owned or national service service? You can't compare the BBFC and Sky. The BBFC is an industry body backed by law, and this decision shows its independance.
If the answer is no, then how on earth can you, fully trust that BBFC decision unless you get some tangible evidence to back up their decision, beyond a statement saying it's banned in the u.k?
Well, what evidence do you have that their decision was wrong? Have you played the game? I haven't but I respect that the BBFC has a vast amount of experience classifying games and, in the past, in my opinion, has always been correct and not influenced by public perceptions. For example, they gave Bully a 15 certification which was totally appropriate.
So much questionable stuff out there in books (American Psycho, very dark which anyone can buy), films (Saw, Hostel, Wolf Creek, etc etc). If this game were being marketed at a teen market then fair enough. However Rockstar's games are aimed at an older audience, so that 18 cert should be enough to get it out there. Are us adults now children?
So, we should create a game called "Paedophile Paradise" and allow everyone to purchase it, just because everyone has the right to create and purchase everything? Or a game where you go around killing and toturing real-life politicians in inventive ways just because game maker doesn't like them? Sometimes censorship is needed, in my opinion.
All the films you mention are OTT to begin with and have no interactivity.
Teens will obtain copies of Manhunt 2 regardless as to if it is aimed to them. Rockstar has a teenage audience from GTA who will want to purchase titles from the company.
As I said, I haven't played them game, but I'm guessing for the BBFC to ban it it much be extremely bad.
With plenty of real life violence going on in the world it now seems its a crime to escape reality and have fun. A shame for every adult out there if this ban stays intact. It possible this decision could also be influenced by the current climate concerning games (which always highlights the negative and ignores the positive).
So there's a lot of violence in real-life therefore it's good to go and kill fictional people in games? Is that the argument? As I said, I don't think the BBFC are influenced by the agenda of the media, as previous evidence states the opposite.
Modhabobo 19 Jun 2007 16:14
12/20
What? So we are allowed to see b******s like Hostel and Hostel 2. we are allowed to watch mind retarding crap like Big Brother and Epic Movie. Watch hardcore porn, and sanctified violence in the form of boxing. But we can't play a game where you murder people. We can listen to death music, watch bombs fall in HD on foreign countries but not play A GAME! When will people stop blaming media, and start taking responsibility for themselves? i have played games like this all my life (or whatever its equivalent is), and i don't want to go kill anyone. I think there is such a hysteria because people realise they aren't there to say no to their kids, and so THEY are to blame for all this. I'll just buy it online.
Pappa Bennet 19 Jun 2007 16:17
13/20
Good think, IMO
It'll save a lot of honest, hard working people from wasting their money on a steaming pile of s**t.
It'll save a lot of honest, hard working people from wasting their money on a steaming pile of s**t.
Pappa Bennet 19 Jun 2007 16:36
14/20
Adam M wrote:
If the answer is no, then how on earth can you, fully trust that BBFC decision unless you get some tangible evidence to back up their decision, beyond a statement saying it's banned in the u.k?
Well, what evidence do you have that their decision was wrong?
they granted Manhunt an 18 rating and now - even after they published a report saying that violent games impress teh viewer less than films - they ban this one
they're admitting that they either got it wrong with manhunt 1 or they're swayed by the media
Ditto 19 Jun 2007 16:40
15/20
Pappa Bennet wrote:
they're admitting that they either got it wrong with manhunt 1 or they're swayed by the media
The quote from them says that this game is worse than the original....
Cochice 20 Jun 2007 12:01
16/20
How can the BBFC ban this game that is obviously cartoon make believe in an existing sickening culture of torture voyeurism that happily condones movies like hostel and the Saw trilogy?
soanso 21 Jun 2007 07:37
17/20
Rockstar are probably paying the price of their own notoriety here and all the negative press surrounding the first Manhunt game is coming back to haunt them.
I wonder why exactly they think it's too violent? I wonder what exactly the content is that pushes it over the limit.
Elsewhere in SPOnG's news there's a bit about Hitman. Hitman games have no humour, you're a contract killer and it is sort of realistic-ish. But maybe the crucial difference is that you can choose not to kill anyone but hey, you've still got to take out your target even if most of them are the sort who deserve it.
To me there's no difference. It's still a game about murder.
I wonder why exactly they think it's too violent? I wonder what exactly the content is that pushes it over the limit.
Elsewhere in SPOnG's news there's a bit about Hitman. Hitman games have no humour, you're a contract killer and it is sort of realistic-ish. But maybe the crucial difference is that you can choose not to kill anyone but hey, you've still got to take out your target even if most of them are the sort who deserve it.
To me there's no difference. It's still a game about murder.
SLick 89 30 Jun 2007 02:40
18/20
its totaly rubbish whats going on here bloody hell what bout manhunt 1 eh so violent yet ban the 2nd 1 no deal foe me i love the 1st manhunt im a real big fan i think rockstar tryed a short term move and were surpirised at the sale of the game it was such a big hit yet i hood say thid dnt ban manhunt 2 ask parent ages off kids 1st bfore sellin it 2 them and 18 and overs will have id on them so if this happens im real disapinted and i bet millions over the uk are so the bbfc f**k them coz there just idiots letting this happen if this happens ffft ill probz get in touch with them and try get to them personaly im probably not the only 1 and milloins will stand up for this long a waited game
aj 26 Dec 2009 23:35
19/20
manhunt should be m rated.
aj 26 Dec 2009 23:36
20/20
=The wii sucks/