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, came without explanation.

Hunter x Hunter: Nen Impact Blocked from Australian Release

Refused Classification Rating

While the reasons for an RC rating are usually clear, this decision is surprising. The game's launch trailer showed no explicit content, graphic violence, or drug use – presenting itself as a typical fighting game. However, unseen content may be the cause, or potentially, correctable errors.

A Chance for Appeal

Australia has a history of game bans and subsequent reversals. The Classification Board has overturned previous Refused Classifications after developers made edits or provided sufficient justifications. Examples include The Witcher 2: Assassins of Kings and Disco Elysium: The Final Cut. Changes to address concerns about explicit content, such as removing scenes of sexual violence (as seen with Outlast 2) have proven successful.

Therefore, the ban on Hunter x Hunter: Nen Impact isn't necessarily final. The developer or publisher can appeal the decision by either justifying the content or making changes to meet Australian classification standards. The possibility of a future release in Australia remains open.