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, was made without explanation.

Hunter x Hunter: Nen Impact Blocked from Australian Release

Refused Classification Rating

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 might be the cause, or perhaps correctable errors.

A Path to Reconsideration

Australia's classification board has a history of banning games, sometimes later overturning those decisions after edits or appeals. Games like The Witcher 2: Assassins of Kings initially received Refused Classification but were later approved after modifications.

The board is open to reconsidering its rulings if developers make changes or provide sufficient justification for the content. Examples include Disco Elysium: The Final Cut (drug use portrayal) and Outlast 2 (removal of a sexual violence scene), both of which were eventually rated after revisions.

Therefore, the ban isn't necessarily final. The developers or publishers could appeal the decision by either justifying the content or making changes to meet Australian classification standards. The future of Hunter x Hunter: Nen Impact in Australia remains uncertain, pending further action.