GamesRadar - Manhunt 2

EU tells videogame industry to protect minors better (News)

Apr 22, 2008

Videogame makers and shops have two years to come up with a widely accepted industry code of conduct to better protect children from violent images, the European Union's executive body said on Tuesday.

50 Reasons you're a crappy customer (Feature)

Apr 15, 2008

Not too long ago GR threw a big ol' pillow fight we called The Week of Hate. We got a lot of crap off our chest, and the internet rejoiced in the only way it knows how: with an amusingly disproportionate amount of resentment. And that’s beautiful! We’re all about venting here. It’s extremely therapeutic.

So, when the employees of an actual Minnesota game store sent us a list of the 50 things they hate about their customers, we couldn’t help but chuckle in agreement. Our office contains more than a few veterans of retail, and we can confirm that many of you stroll into your local GameStop completely unaware of how much of an ass you are.

Consumers: The time has come to educate yourself! Because for most of you, it’s not a question of which number below represents you - it’s how many. ...

Easy does it: Be careful of what games you want to defend (News)

Feb 20, 2008

Following news last week that Australian censors have withheld yet another game (Dark Sector) from adult players, most gamers would feel frustration at the inequity of the current classification regime.

But Dr. Brett Hutchins, a passionate gamer and a senior lecturer in Communications and Media Studies at Melbourne's Monash University, believes the lack of an R18+ rating for games in Australia might actually be good for the long-term health and acceptance of interactive entertainment.

The gaming community should be very careful about what games they use to rally around and prosecute the classification system. In much of the public eye, unnecessary and mindless games like Manhunt 2, which rely on extreme violence to shock, titillate and garner attention, are only going to reinforce the stereotypes that gamers are fighting to overcome. Dr. Hutchins points out that "if the wrong games (i.e. extremely violent games) are held up as evidence of unfairness, this may actually be counter-productive."

Rockstar questions High Court judgement (News)

Jan 25, 2008

Rockstar Games has released an official statement in response to yesterday's High Court decision to rule against the Video Appeals Committee, which had previously given the green light for Manhunt 2 to go on sale in the UK.

"We believe the VAC decision was correct and do not understand the court's decision to expend further public resources to censor a game that contains content well within the bounds established by the BBFC's 18-plus ratings certification," read the statement in full.

Reported by GamesIndustry.biz on 25/01/2008

Manhunt 2 UK release in peril again (News)

Jan 25, 2008

The controversy over Rockstar's Manhunt 2 is raging on in the UK, even though the game has already been granted a release in North America and many other European countries.

First, Manhunt 2 was banned in the UK by the British Board of Film Classification. Then the ban was overturned by appeal by the Video Appeals Committee. Now the appeal itself has been overturned by the High Court.

BBFC Manhunt 2 Judicial Review Is Go (News)

Dec 21, 2007

And the Manhunt 2 UK ban saga continues, as the British Board of Film Certification today announces that they have be granted permission for a judicial review of the appeal the Video Appeals Committee passed regarding the classification of the game. While Kotaku thinks that no one cares about Manhunt 2 anymore, the unfolding drama could very well have an important effect on future, more interesting violent video games.

Manhunt 2 - Does it even matter any more? (Feature)

Dec 21, 2007

21st Dec, 2007 So, the BBFC has decided to take the Manhunt 2 debacle a step further. You might remember that last week the games UK ban was finally overturned by the Video Appeals Commission. Cue much rejoicing and popping of corks all round at Rockstar. But now things are different. Rather than accepting the decision, the BBFC has decided to take the matter to the High Court for a judicial ...

Take-Two "disappointed" with BBFC (News)

Dec 18, 2007

Rockstar parent Take-Two has said it's "disappointed" with the BBFC's application for a judicial review of the Video Appeals Committee's decision on Manhunt 2. The decision could have seen the game get a 18 rating in the UK.

Take-Two Interactive's chairman Strauss Zelnick responded to the move today, saying in a statement: "We are disappointed that the BBFC has decided to appeal its own Video Appeals Committee's judgement in favour of an 18-plus certificate for Manhunt 2."

"We believe the VAC decision was correct and do not understand the BBFC's decision to expend further public resources to censor a game that contains content well within the bounds established by the BBFC's 18-plus ratings certification."

BBFC applies for judicial review (News)

Dec 17, 2007

The British Board of Film Classification has applied for a judicial review regarding the successful appeal made by Rockstar Games against the Manhunt 2 ban.

The Video Appeals Committee had previously overturned the BBFC's rejection of Manhunt 2, but now the Board is seeking to overturn that decision, as well as a suspension of the Committee's decision to grant the game a classification.

According to a statement released by the BBFC, the Board believes that if its original decision isn't allowed to stand there could be significant consequences on future classifications.

Court case may freeze Manhunt 2 UK release (News)

Dec 14, 2007

Dec 14, 2007 Despite winning an appeal to have Manhunt 2 classified, Rockstar's game won't be making its way to UK retail any time soon if the British Board of Film Classification decides to take the case to the High Court, the ratings body has warned. While the Video Appeals Committee voted in favour of Rockstar's bid to get the controversial Manhunt 2 classified in the UK, the BBFC has told MCV it will need to study the report of the VAC proceedings before deciding whether to grant the game ...

Court Case May Freeze Manhunt 2 UK Release (News)

Dec 14, 2007

BBFC warns that it may take legal action to stop Rockstar's game getting to retail

Rockstar is still celebrating its successful appeal to get Manhunt 2 classified ¿ but the British Board of Film Classification has warned that it may go to the most powerful judiciary in the country to ensure the game never hits High Street shelves.

Rockstar wins Manhunt 2 appeal (News)

Dec 10, 2007

Rockstar's appeal against the BBFC's decision to reject a modified version of Manhunt 2 has been successful.

The Video Appeals Committee announced its decision to allow the appeal today. Although the final judgement has not yet been released, the organisation says that it decided in favour of Rockstar by four votes to three.

"The BBFC will carefully study the judgement by the Video Appeals Committee when it becomes available," said BBFC director David Cooke, who revealed that the BBFC "played Manhunt 2 for well over 30 hours" before rejecting it.

California Senator Urges Parents to Avoid Violent Games for the Holidays (News)

Nov 27, 2007

California State Senator Leland Yee has issued a press release in which he advises parents not to purchase violent video games for their children during the holiday season.

Yee, who sponsored California's contested 2005 video game law, is a child psychologist by training. He cited research showing potential harmful effects on younger players and took a swipe at the ESRB, the video game industry's content rating body. He also singled the controversial Manhunt 2 for criticism. The press release includes a list of tips to help parents select games for their children and counsels them to avoid first-person and third-person shooter games.

No evidence connecting games and violence, says BBFC (News)

Nov 26, 2007

The BBFC has accepted there is no proven link between anti-social behaviour and violent videogames - but said more research is required to conclusively rule any connection out.

Andrew Caldecott, representing the BBFC, went on to observe that neither side had suggested Manhunt 2 was suitable for people aged under 18 at any point during the hearing. "For a young person, this is a disturbing game, it is a shocking game, and there issues about innocence and matters of that sort in relation to young people."

"In a Utopian society, you would have effective measures where the over-18s could play what was suitable for them without being cluttered by the fact minors will see them. But you can't make classification decisions without regard to the social prevalence [of games]."

Tiga boss, psychologist defend Rockstar's position (News)

Nov 26, 2007

Tiga president Fred Hasson and psychologist Guy Cumberbatch were today called to speak in defence of Rockstar at the appeal against the BBFC's decision to refuse certification for Manhunt 2.

Hasson told the Video Appeals Committee panel he had played four levels of the game and was "surprised at how tame it is compared to some very graphical scenes I've seen in other games which have received certification. I expected it to be a lot worse¿ I can't believe that this has been singled out as something that is worth banning."

Text of Senators' Manhunt 2 Protest Letter to ESRB (News)

Nov 24, 2007

Four U.S. Senators sent a letter on Monday to the ESRB calling for a review of the video game industry's content rating system in the wake of the Manhunt 2 controversy. Jump to the source to read what they sent.

Four U.S. Senators Call for Review of ESRB (News)

Nov 23, 2007

"It looks like Rockstar just can't catch a break, as four U.S. Senators are now calling for a review of the ESRB over their rating of the controversial game Manhunt 2. Sens. Joe Lieberman, Hillary Clinton, Evan Bayh, and Sam Brownback have sent a signed letter to the president of the ESRB, Patricia Vance."

EGM Scores: 8.5/10 for Uncharted, 9/10 for Mass Effect (News)

Nov 13, 2007

NeoGAF member egmfan89 has posted score from latest EGM magazine:

"Mario and sonic olympics: 6,7,6
Geometry wars galaxies: 8.5,7, 8.5
Fire Emblem: 9,9, 8.5
Need For speed pro street: 8.5, 7.5, 7
Tony hawk: 5.5, 6.5, 7.5
Manhunt 2: 4, 5, 7
CoD 4: 9.5, 8.5, 9.5
Blacksite Area 51: 6, 5, 6
Kane and Lynch: 7.5, 7, 7
Uncharted: 3 8.5s"

TV News Coverage of Target's Manhunt 2 Axing (News)

Nov 8, 2007

Alone among major video game retailers, Minneapolis-based Target has decided to stop selling the controversial Manhunt 2.

Local Minneapolis TV station WCCO covers the decision in this report. A Target press release, cited in WCCO's coverage, says:

"While 'Manhunt 2' was given a 'Mature' rating by the ERSB, we received additional information that players can potentially view previously filtered content by altering the game code. As a result, we have decided not to carry the game."

The station also spoke with Matt Helgeson, senior editor of Game Informer, also based in Minneapolis:

"It is not a game for kids, it is very much a game for adults. And any adult thinking about buying the game for their kids should really reconsider that. I would say there are probably ten movies I could walk in right now and buy in Target that are every bit as gory as 'Manhunt,' if not more..."

More confirmations that Target has removed Manhunt 2 (News)

Nov 5, 2007

A Nintendo fan site is reporting that an electronics specialist at Target has confirmed that Manhunt 2 is being removed from all of the retailers locations. Moreover, the journalist made a check at his local Target store and found that there was not a single PS2 or PSP copy of the game to be found.

Target removing Manhunt 2 from its stores? (News)

Nov 4, 2007

Evil Avatar is reporting that local Target stores have been pulling Manhunt 2 off their store shelves in response to the recent events where some hackers uncovered adult content within the game.

Even though the ESRB themselves remained firm with the game's M rating, it looks like Target is taking no chances and is removing the game from its stores.

According to the source, all Target managers are required to stop selling the game, including refusing shipments of the game for all systems. Also Take-Two agreed to take back all unopened copies of the game.

Manhunt 2 - Uncensored kills 11-02-07 (Video)

Nov 2, 2007

Manhunt 2 UNCENSORED video and ESRB's response (Feature)

Nov 2, 2007

Nov 2, 2007 As most everyone on the planet has heard by now, Grand Theft Auto publishers Rockstar made a game called Manhunt 2 that was so gory, they could only get it on store shelves by covering up all the nasty bits. But enterprising hackers have broken into Manhunt 2 and removed the visual filters that covered up all of that nasty stuff. And luckily for us, they're sharing. We've found a nice, long, completely uncensored version of the video lurking about the interweb's nether regions, so ...

ESRB: Manhunt 2 is No Hot Coffee (News)

Nov 2, 2007

ESRB president Patricia Vance just held a short conference call to address the growing furor surrounding the discovery that the unfiltered, Adults Only version of Manhunt 2 is fully playable on the Playstation Portable with the help of a hack.

In a nutshell, Vance said what happened with Manhunt 2 was not at all similar with what happened with Grand Theft Auto San Andreas' Hot Coffee.

"With Grand Theft Auto San Andreas, that involved a scene that was fully rendered in unmodified content on the disc," she said. "It didn't alter the content it merely unlocked it. That content was not disclosed to the ESRB... and it was easily accessible to PC users."

Senator Leland Yee: ESRB, Rockstar 'Put Profits Before Children' (News)

Nov 2, 2007

California Senator Leland Yee has chimed in on the latest chapter in the Manhunt 2 flap, saying in a statement that "The ESRB and Rockstar continuously put profits before children." Yee, an advocate of legislation that would make selling violent games to minors a crime, went on to recommend that the game's original AO rating be restored, and that the Federal Trade Commission should investigate both Rockstar and the ESRB to see how the whole thing happened in the first place.

Dr. Phil Weighs in on Manhunt 2 (News)

Nov 1, 2007

A still-critical, but seemingly more reasoned, version of Dr. Phil made an appearance yesterday on CBS morning program The Early Show to discuss Manhunt 2.

Watching as game journalist Scott Steinberg played the "Sexual Deviance" level of Manhunt 2 on the Wii, Dr. Phil commented:

Clearly, it's not good. The research has been very, very strong over the years that when you're exposed to violence and when you actually mimic something like this the aggression can go up.

Now the truth is, if somebody plays this game and then they go and do this in their life, there was something seriously wrong with them before they got the game. But it's modeling.

NAMI Blasts Rockstar, Manhunt 2 (News)

Nov 1, 2007

The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) condemned Rockstar Games' Manhunt 2 on Thursday, claiming the game is a "irresponsible, stereotyped portrayal of people with mental illnesses."

Rockstar Confirms Manhunt 2 PSP Hack (News)

Nov 1, 2007

Since late yesterday GamePolitics has been following a rumor that hackers had discovered a means to reveal the original, unedited content of Manhunt 2. In other words, the version rated "Adults Only" by the ESRB.

Now GamePolitics has the confirmation from a Take Two representative that it's not a rumor. It's true.

According to Take Two, the hack does not reveal the entire AO-rated version of the game, only a portion thereof.

Manhunt 2 Gets Rockstar Vienna Crediting Controversy (News)

Nov 1, 2007

Following the debut of Rockstar's Manhunt 2, a former producer at Rockstar Vienna, which developed the game from 2004 to mid-2006, has spoken out as "disappointed and outraged" regarding the game's credits, which do not reference the contributions from over 50 staff at the now-closed studio.

Hackers uncensor Manhunt 2 (News)

Nov 1, 2007

Nov 1, 2007 PSP hackers have discovered a way to get around Rockstar's self-censorship of Manhunt 2 and enjoy the game "the way it was intended", using illegal software to edit the game's code. It's not a simple task though. To make it work hackers are using a digitally pirated (and therefore illegal) PSP copy of Manhunt 2, PSP hacking programs and more than a little ability in reading and editing code. But, then, Hot Coffee wasn't exactly plug-'n'-play ...

Gamasutra's Critical Reception: Rockstar Games' Manhunt 2 (News)

Oct 31, 2007

This week's edition of the regular Critical Reception column examines online reaction to Manhunt 2, Rockstar's controversial stealth-action sequel that critics say is "every bit as grim and brutal as the first," though some may find it "not nearly as memorable or enjoyable."

Manhunt 2 finally saw U.S. release earlier this week, having previously being delayed due to its violent content. This violence was determined to be explicit enough to warrant an AO rating by the ESRB, making the title unreleasable on all major platforms and unsellable at several retailers. After seeing a number of required changes in order to reduce its ESRB rating to an M, the Nintendo Wii version of Manhunt 2 arrives on store shelves to a Metacritic-averaged score of 70 out of 100...

With such a large divide between review scores, it's debatable as to whether Manhunt 2 will appeal even to fans of the original title. Critics note that its inconsistent gameplay and censored content might be an immediate turnoff for many interested players. However, other reviewers feel that the experience is decent enough to warrant a playthrough, and if its shortcomings can be forgiven, Manhunt 2 could be a worthwhile purchase.

Critics: Toned down 'Manhunt 2' still too violent (News)

Oct 31, 2007

Child advocates are urging parents not to buy "Manhunt 2," a video game whose characters kill and torture using implements ranging from glass and shovels to a fuse box and a toilet. The title goes on sale Wednesday -- Halloween -- rated "mature," appropriate for people 17 and up, for about $28. In the first-person killer fantasy, the players take on the role of a man escaping from an insane asylum.

Common Sense Media CEO Trashes Manhunt 2; City Hall Press Conference Today (News)

Oct 30, 2007

As the Manhunt 2 launch draws near, the hurly-burly over the controversial game shifts to San Francisco where watchdog group Common Sense Media will hold a 10AM press conference at City Hall.

On Friday GamePolitics reported that the organization was urging parents to boycott Manhunt 2. The game is scheduled to arrive in stores tomorrow.

There was a bit of an oops in CSM's Manhunt 2 bashing, however, as GP's Friday coverage pointed out. At least one gory scene detailed by the group - that of a police officer being decapitated by a shovel - apparently came from an early build of Manhunt 2 which was leaked online by an SCEE employee in September. A Rockstar press representative told GP the scene did not appear in the M-rated retail version of the game.

At today's press conference in San Francisco, CSM will be showing video clips from the leaked version. From the CSM press release:

Common Sense downloaded a version of the game that is available online, and will be showing illustrative clips of that version to the press a day before the official title is scheduled to hit stores on Wednesday.

GP asked CSM if the location of the press conference at City Hall indicated that the San Francisco government was somehow getting involved, but a CSM representative nixed the idea. However, another source told GamePolitics that SF Mayor Gavin Newsome's press secretary is a former Common Sense Media employee.

Rockstar: "We Didn't Neuter" Cleared Manhunt 2 (News)

Oct 30, 2007

Jeronimo Barrera, Rockstar's vice president of product development, has stated that Manhunt 2 wasn't neutered in order to receive a revised rating and secure a US release.

The controversial game, which went on sale on Tuesday in the US for Wii, PS2 and PSP, was initially given an Adults-Only rating by the Entertainment Software Ratings Board (ESRB), effectively barring it from release on Sony and Nintendo platforms, and blocked from sale in the UK after the British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) failed to grant the game a rating due to its "unremitting bleakness and callousness of tone."

In Manhunt 2 the player assumes the role of Daniel Lamb, a tortured man who wakes up to find himself in a mental institution he must escape. What follows is a murder spree using weapons including guns, plastic bags and shovels, in locations such as graveyards and red-light districts.

While a revised version of the title was granted an M for Mature rating (17+), Barrera told MTV that the company's artistic vision wasn't compromised by the revisions, and insisted there was more to talk about than just the violence in the horror title.

Manhunt 2 finally arrives in US (News)

Oct 30, 2007

The title that was banned by the BBFC hits US retail today.

For the time being there seems little chance of Rockstar's Manhunt 2 arriving in the UK, but US gamers will from today be able to purchase the controversial title in games stores following its official release.

After initially being granted a restrictive Adults Only rating by North American trade body ESRB, the title was instead given a more lenient Mature certificate on appeal, meaning it will be widely available to the public.

In the UK, however, the same version that hits US retail today was denied a release by British body the BBFC.

Manhunt 2 - The pervs 10-29-07 (Video)

Oct 29, 2007

Manhunt 2 - The asylum 10-29-07 (Video)

Oct 29, 2007

Manhunt 2 (Review)

Oct 29, 2007

Oct 29, 2007 It's been dogged by months of controversy, moral outrage, an outright UK ban and speculation that it might never come out at all, but Manhunt 2 is finally here. It's been through a few changes since we first saw it, but the basic premise of this stealth-horror adventure - hiding in the shadows and doing extremely nasty things to extremely nasty people - remains intact, as does its creepy storyline about escaped mental patients pursued by a shadowy, quasi-governmental research ...

Manhunt 2's Parental Boycott of Common Sense (News)

Oct 27, 2007

GamePolitics writes: "Not suprisingly, watchdog groups are weighing in on Manhunt 2 as the game's Halloween launch draws near.

San Jose Mercury-News scribe Mike Antonucci reports that Common Sense Media has issued a press release urging parents to boycott the game. Not bad advice, actually, since no one under the age of 17 should be playing Manhunt 2, anyway".

Manhunt 2 could be released in UK as digital download (News)

Oct 25, 2007

Oct 25, 2007 Rockstar's Manhunt 2 could release in the UK, but as a digital download, it's emerged. It's all to do with a legal loophole in the UK's 1984 Video Recordings Act, which only covers physical products. An age-certification rating is apparently not required for online digital ...

Manhunt 2 trailer sickens (News)

Oct 25, 2007

Oct 25, 2007 We're still waiting to discover if the BBFC will ever allow Manhunt 2 to be released in the UK, but our lucky (or unlucky?) American bretheren can indulge in Rockstar's murderous romp this Halloween. Which is why this new trailer is doing the rounds. Feeling ill yet? No doubt Rockstar is working on a way to release Manhunt 2 in Europe, but until it announces its plans, or the BBFC relents in its refusal to offer a certificate, we'll all just have to watch on with interest as ...

Sony employee leaked Manhunt 2 (News)

Oct 22, 2007

Oct 22, 2007 Rockstar parent Take Two Interactive has released a statement concerning the recent leakage of Manhunt 2 to the internet. Back in early September we reported that a version of Manhunt was cracked by hackers and leaked to the internet. Question was, where did it come from? Seems like Sony was to blame and not ...

Mainstream Media Site Screams Bloody Murder Over Manhunt 2 Leak (News)

Oct 17, 2007

As reported by GamePolitics and other outlets, an early PS2 build of Manhunt 2 was leaked onto the Internet last month.

For its part, the gaming community seemed to take the news in stride. It was, after all, not a finished product, only one of several planned versions, and not accessible without some extra effort and technical knowledge. Great Britain's Sky News, however, jumped on the story in a big way today.

Despite the sensationalism, GamePolitics did extract one kernel of what is believed to be new information from the Sky News coverage: "[Rockstar Games] accepts the game was leaked onto the web by an employee of a different company who had access to the preview copy. That person has been sacked."

Banned UK Manhunt 2 Same as US Version (News)

Oct 12, 2007

It's been revealed the version of Manhunt 2 that the British Board of Film Classification turned down earlier this week in the UK, is exactly the same as the revised edition that's been granted a mature rating by the ESRB in North America.

This revelation comes from UK trade magazine MCV during an interview with BBFC spokeswoman Sue Clark. She defends the board's decision saying that the organisation isn't any tougher on videogames than it is on movies. "Manhunt 2 is the second game we have rejected in 23 years. I'd hardly call that draconian," she said.

Rockstar: BBFC decision a "setback for video games" (News)

Oct 8, 2007

Rockstar has issued an official statement following this morning's decision by the BBFC not rate the revised version (read that as toned down) of Manhunt 2.

"We are continuing to appeal the British Board of Film Classification's (BBFC) decision to deny the edited version of Manhunt 2 an 18+ certificate and thereby ban its release in the United Kingdom. The changes necessary in order to publish the game in Britain are unacceptable to us and represent a setback for video games.

The BBFC allows adults the freedom to decide for themselves when it comes to horror in movies and we think adults should be similarly allowed to decide for themselves when it comes to horror in video games, such as Manhunt 2."

Rockstar defiant in face of latest BBFC rejection (News)

Oct 8, 2007

Oct 8, 2007 After its already massively controversial Manhunt 2 was refused certification for a second time by the BBFC today, Rockstar is - as you'd expect - a bit peeved at the decision and the publisher has made it pretty clear that it isn't prepared to make further edits in order to appease the censors. A statement released by Rockstar reads: "We are continuing to appeal the British Board of Film Classification's (BBFC) decision to deny the edited version of "Manhunt 2" an 18+ certificate ...

Still no Manhunt 2 for UK (News)

Oct 8, 2007

The BBFC has rejected a revised version of the video game Manhunt 2. This follows the rejection of the original version of the game in June. The distributor had set in motion an appeal to the Video Appeals Committee against that decision, and this was suspended while the revised version was considered for classification.

Manhunt 2's Daniel Lamb backstory is released (News)

Sep 21, 2007

Rockstar Games released an exclusive web-only companion prologue to the events of Manhunt 2 featuring key backstory revelations. The Daniel Lamb Session was scripted, directed, and recorded by Rockstar on vintage analog equipment, in order to capture the grim, thick atmosphere of Manhunt 2.

Manhunt 2 Damages Long-term Rep of Industry, says Braben (News)

Sep 9, 2007

It's "not the sort of game" the industry should be making says Frontier Developments boss David Braben.

"I think at the root of this problem is that there's still an expectation among parents that ESRB/PEGI/BBFC ratings can be ignored - possibly based on their experience of games when they were younger," he told CVG.

Thompson and 2K Come To Blows Over Manhunt 2 (News)

Aug 31, 2007

GamePolitics is serving up email transcripts that show increasing tension between Jack Thompson and 2K Games. The two parties have been acting at least vaguely civilly towards each other since an April settlement. A taunting, factually incorrect email from Jack to 2K (and other parties) has set things off again. 2K's response is to-the-point.

Manhunt 2 "Uncut" for The Netherlands - "Time to import" (News)

Aug 30, 2007

Despite Manhunt 2 being revised for its 31st October release in the US and currently banned in the UK by the BBFC, it seems the game will slip through the net into Europe via The Netherlands, since the country's Ministry is powerless to ban the controversial Wii/PSP/PS2 game from Rockstar and publisher Take Two.

Apparently it seems that the Dutch Ministry is refusing to step in and prevent the game from hitting The Netherlands as it would prove to be a matter of conflict with current law in that country. Whilst people can still be prosecuted if the game is distributed to those under the age of 16, no cases such as this have ever been tried in the Netherlands.

ESRB refuses to detail Manhunt 2 re-rate (News)

Aug 29, 2007

Aug 29, 2007 Despite the demands of Calif. State Sen. Leland Yee, the Entertainment Software Rating Board said it would not disclose why it re-rated Manhunt 2 from an AO to an M. "Publishers submit game content to the ESRB on a confidential basis," said ESRB president Patricia Vance in a statement Tuesday. "It is simply not our place to reveal specific details about the content we have reviewed, particularly when it involves a product yet to be released. "What can be said is that the changes ...

No Developments in UK Manhunt 2 Appeal (News)

Aug 29, 2007

Rockstar Games has told Next-Gen that there have been no further developments in its efforts to secure a UK rating for Manhunt 2. Rockstar games are currently awaiting the verdict of an appeal against the BBFC's (British Board of Film Classification) decision not to grant the game a rating, hence barring it from release.

The controversial game, originally given an AO (Adults Only) rating in the US, was last Friday granted an M for Mature rating by the ESRB (Entertainment Software Rating Board). The decision, which was rebuked by a number of parties outside of the gaming community, followed the re-rating of a modified version of the title, clearing the way for a Halloween release in North America on Wii, PS2 and PSP.

ESRB Responds To Manhunt 2 Ratings Criticism (News)

Aug 28, 2007

Following yesterday's criticism from California State Senator Leland Yee calling for transparency and an investigation into Manhunt 2's new M rating, ESRB president Patricia Vance has said simply that context and depiction changes in the game were enough to warrant the rating.

"Upon reviewing the modified version of Manhunt 2," said Vance in a statement, "the ESRB assigned a rating of M (Mature 17+) with content descriptors for Intense Violence, Blood and Gore, Strong Language, Strong Sexual Content and Use of Drugs."

Watchdog Group Calls for Investigation in Wake of Manhunt 2 Re-rate (News)

Aug 26, 2007

While Rockstar fans are high-fiving over news that Manhunt 2 will now see the light of day as an M-rated horror game, the Campaign For a Commercial-Free Childhood is not impressed.

The group has called for a federal government investigation into how Manhunt 2 came to be an M-rated game.

Manhunt 2 Cleared for Release in US (News)

Aug 24, 2007

Rockstar has finally received some good news over Manhunt 2: the game has been cleared for an October release in the US.

American ratings board the ESRB has granted the game an 'M' classification ¿ which allows sale to consumers of 17 years and older ¿ after Rockstar submitted a modified version of the title.

Manhunt 2 Appeal to Prove Lengthy, Costly (News)

Aug 9, 2007

A new report claims that Rockstar's appeal to have Manhunt 2's UK ban overturned could take months to be resolved, leaving the publisher in a very awkward position.

Manhunt 2 Falls off Take 2's Radar (News)

Aug 2, 2007

As part of its revised revenue and earnings guidance for fiscal 2007, Take-Two has announced the delayed Manhunt 2 has been completely removed from its current fiscal year schedule, ended October 31. What's more, the game does not appear on the company's fiscal 2008 line-up.

1UP:
When asked why Manhunt 2 was not listed on release lineup, Zelnick replied, "It's because, you know... obviously, we don't have an M rating yet."

Rockstar appeals Manhunt 2 ban (News)

Aug 2, 2007

As previously speculated, Rockstar will indeed appeal the BBFC ban. The company has now told us that it's officially lodged a plea with the Video Appeals Committee over Manhunt 2's ban in the UK. Rockstar notified the VAC yesterday, at the last minute - as it was only allowed six weeks to formulate an appeal to the UK ban. VAC has the power to overturn the BBFC's ban decision, so depending on the body's decision we could finally see Manhunt 2 release on Wii, PS2 and PSP - though obviously a ...

Rockstar Responds - The company's NYC arm gives its opinion on the Manhunt 2 row (News)

Jul 17, 2007

On June 22, following the announcement that Rockstar title Manhunt 2 was to be banned from sale, GamesIndustry.biz published an article entitled Sick Filth? by regular contributor Rob Fahey. (The article, it should be noted, expressed Fahey's personal opinions and not necessarily those held by GI.biz.)

Rockstar has since contacted the site in response to the piece; the company's letter is printed here in full after the jump.

"Manhunt made my son a killer", Says the Mother (News)

Jul 15, 2007

The parents of Britain's most violent teenager has spilled to News of the world that the computer game Manhunt turned their son into a killer. The killer was supposedly a 'quiet and reserved' boy with a 'promising future' but every night he'd turn into some kind of twisted murderer as he used Manhunt to practice his potential murders. His mom claims that he never did anything to make her worry in the past and implies that his casual Playstation addiction was the sole cause for the murders that her twisted killer of a son conducted.

Take-Two "determined" to release Manhunt 2 (News)

Jul 10, 2007

Take-Two chairman Strauss Zelnick has said that the firm is "evaluating its options" regarding the release of the "adults only" rated Manhunt 2. "We're determined to bring Manhunt 2 to the consumers for which it was intended, and to do so in a responsible fashion," he stated during a conference call today. Zelnick also questioned the point of having an "adults only" rating when it effectively bars a console game from release. The Entertainment Software Rating Board recently gave the game an ...

Take-Two Criticizes AO Ratings (News)

Jul 10, 2007

In the midst of the Manhunt 2 rating fiasco, Take-Two management questioned the point of having an "adults only" rating when it effectively bars a console game from release.

During a conference call today, Take-Two chairman Strauss Zelnick said that the firm is "evaluating its options" regarding the release of the "adults only" rated Manhunt 2.

"We're determined to bring Manhunt 2 to the consumers for which it was intended, and to do so in a responsible fashion," he stated.

The Entertainment Software Rating Board recently gave the game an "AO" rating because of intense violence. Many large retailers don't carry games with an AO rating, and console manufacturers don't allow such rated games on their machines.

Alternate endings in Manhunt 2 (News)

Jul 5, 2007

Despite being banned in the UK, our sister mag from across the Atlantic, NGamer, had the exclusive Wii review for Manhunt 2. We may never get to experience the game that they played now that Rockstars gone back to the drawing board. However, when perusing the tip book that comes packed with NGamer, we came upon a little nugget of information regarding not only alternate endings, but completely different final levels depending on how you played the game. “The final level you see depends ...

Rockstar thanks Manhunt community (News)

Jun 29, 2007

Rockstar Games has sent out an email to the Manhunt community, thanking it for all its messages of support over the ban. The email also says that Rockstar hopes to have more information on the status of the ban soon. As we revealed last week, Rockstar is appealing the decision. "We wanted to thank everyone who has taken the time to contact us about Manhunt 2, which we had been planning to release on PlayStation 2, PSP and Nintendo Wii," says the email. "As you know, Manhunt 2 was effectively ...

Rockstar thanks game community for support over Manhunt 2 (News)

Jun 29, 2007

The Rockstar team have been sending out an e-mail of thanks to all those gamers who offered support to them over the controversial Manhunt 2 games title. The e-mail states that the team hopes to have more information on the status of the game soon but overall thanks the gaming community for messages of support.

Sign up to save Manhunt 2 (News)

Jun 27, 2007

Tuesday 27 June 2007 Before it was banned, Manhunt 2 was one of the most exciting titles to feature on the PS2, PSP and Wii release schedules. Now, after receiving a right royal battering by the 'we know best' boots of the censors, no one - and that means no one - will ever be able to play it. And we think that's a real bummer. Could we - as gamers - ever get it un-banned? Well, there might just be a way... Strewn around the internet are numerous petitions all fighting for a common cause - to ...

Manhunt 2 ban locator on Google Maps (News)

Jun 26, 2007

Never mind being under fire, Rockstar has had to endure a media carpet bombing this week (if you haven't been paying attention, you can catch up with the entire Manhunt 2 saga here) and now the publisher/developer has announced the postponement of Manhunt 2 's release while it considers how best to proceed in the light of the decisions made by the BBFC and ESRB. We're sure there are plenty more twists in the tale to come, though... To help keep you up to date with the story as it continues to ...

Modding Manhunt 2 could cost $1 million (News)

Jun 25, 2007

Wedbush Morgan Securities analyst Michael Pachter believes that modifying Manhunt 2 so it would receive a lower rating (or at least get a rating in the UK) could cost Take-Two anywhere in the region of $1 million. Last week Take-Two temporarily suspended its plans to distribute Manhunt 2 for both Wii and PlayStation 2. The company said, "Take-Two Interactive Software has temporarily suspended plans to distribute Manhunt 2 for the Wii or PlayStation platforms while it reviews its options with ...

Manhunt 2 - hands-on with the game you might never play (Preview)

Jun 22, 2007

If you spend much time looking at the internet, you already know that Manhunt 2 has been the subject of a lot of controversy of late, getting slapped with an ultra-prohibitive Adults Only rating stateside and being banned outright in most of Europe. As of this writing, it's unknown whether you'll ever get a chance to play through the blood-drenched saga of Dr. Daniel Lamb yourself, and you'll almost certainly never see it in its original, gloriously violent form. But we have, and the things ...

Manhunt 2 distribution plans suspended (News)

Jun 22, 2007

Take2 has suspended plans to distribute Manhunt 2 on the three platforms it was due to be released on following the BBFC ban in the UK and the Adults Only rating it received in the US. Of its decision the BBFC said, "Manhunt 2 is distinguishable from recent high-end videogames by its unremitting bleakness and callousness of tone in an overall game context which constantly encourages visceral killing with exceptionally little alleviation or distancing." Basically you don't do anything apart ...

Adult Only-Rated Game Live On The Internet (News)

Jun 21, 2007

Manhunt 2's 'Adult Only' rating from the Entertainment Software Rating Board in the United States has seen all three platform holders ¿ Sony, Nintendo and Microsoft ¿ stating that games with this certification will not be published on their hardware.

Does this mean that the game will never see the light of day?

What happens to an AO'd game in this case? SPOnG looked back into history all the way to 1998 and Virgin Interactive's Thrill Kill.

As you can see from the packshot to the right of this story, Thrill Kill was given an AO rating. However, it never got close to release as Electronic Arts acquired the property as part of its purchase of Virgin ¿ and pulled it from release on the PlayStation.

Manhunt 2 a "fine piece of art" says Take-Two (News)

Jun 21, 2007

Rockstar parent company Take-Two has described Manhunt 2 as a "fine piece of art," in reaction to the bans that the sequel has received. The BBC reported the company's chairman Strauss Zelnick said "Manhunt 2 had his full support and that consumers should decide for themselves." In a statement, Zelnick said, "The Rockstar team has come up with a game that fits squarely within the horror genre and was intended to do so. It brings a unique, formerly unheard of cinematic quality to interactive ...

Take Two: Banned video game is 'fine art' (News)

Jun 21, 2007

The US publishers of a video game banned in the UK and Ireland have described it as a "fine piece of art". Take Two chairman Strauss Zelnick said Manhunt 2 had his full support and that consumers should decide for themselves. "The Rockstar team has come up with a game that fits squarely within the horror genre and was intended to do so," Mr Zelnick said in a statement...

Manhunt 2: What's happened so far... Sony will also not allow the game on their systems. (News)

Jun 21, 2007

I'm writing this article out myself so that others won't be so confused as to what has actually happened with Manhunt 2, so I will write it out in a list.

[1] Manhunt 2 banned in UK - http://www.n4g.com/ClickOut.aspx?ObjID=46390
[2] Manhunt 2 banned in Ireland - http://www.n4g.com/ClickOut.aspx?ObjID=46480
[3] Rated "Adults Only" by ESRB - http://www.n4g.com/ClickOut.aspx?ObjID=46523
[4] Gamefly & Blockbuster refuse to stock Adult-Only games - http://www.n4g.com/ClickOut.aspx?ObjID=46730
[5] Nintendo will not allow Adult-Only Manhunt 2 on the Wii - http://www.n4g.com/ClickOut.aspx?ObjID=46775
[6] Sony will not allow Adult-Only games on their systems. -http://www.maxconsole.net/?mode=news&newsid=18233
[7] Most Likely that Australia will also ban the game following UK

It seems very likely that the game will have to be heavily edited otherwise it can't come out for any of the systems it is currently slated for. The other option is to cancel the game, but with the costs involved I think Rockstar will opt for editing the game.

GameFly, Blockbuster won't carry Manhunt 2 with AO rating (News)

Jun 20, 2007

Joystiq spoke with game rental service GameFly and can report that Manhunt 2, now with an AO rating, will not be carried by the company. A GameFly spokesperson said, "GameFly as a general policy does not carry AO rated titles." When asked if they have ever made an exception to the "general policy," the representive said, "Not that I know of, there's been no exceptions."

They also contacted Blockbuster corporate and they said, "Blockbuster does not carry adult or NC-17 movies, or AO rated games."

Manhunt 2: The entire saga (News)

Jun 20, 2007

It was always going to be surrounded by controversy and yesterday Take-Two Interactive announced that the Entertainment Software Rating Board had given Manhunt 2 the "AO," or Adults only rating. This announcement came after the British Board of Film Classification announced that it had rejected Manhunt 2 for rating, meaning that - unless Rockstar resubmits a diluted version of its ultra-violent excursion into the morally unsettling - the game will never be released in the UK. Similarily in ...

Manhunt 2 rated by ESRB (News)

Jun 19, 2007

After the British Board of Film Classification's announcement today that it has rejected Manhunt 2 for rating in the UK, the Entertainment Software Rating Board has told GamesRadar that it has already assigned a rating to Manhunt 2 for its release in the US. "An ESRB rating has been assigned to the Wii, PS2 and PSP versions of Manhunt 2, and Rockstar has been notified," ESRB president Patricia Vance told us. "However, we are unable to publicly release the rating at this time as it is our ...

ELSPA praises ratings system following Manhunt 2 ban (News)

Jun 19, 2007

ELSPA director general Paul Jackson has said that the decision taken by the BBFC to ban Manhunt 2 from sale "demonstrates that we have a games ratings system in the UK that is effective".

Earlier today the BBFC said it had rejected PlayStation 2 and Wii versions of Manhunt 2.

It's the first time a game has been banned by the BBFC since Carmageddon in 1997 - a decision that was subsequently overturned on appeal, which is an option still open to Manhunt 2 publisher Rockstar.

Rockstar responds to Manhunt rejection (News)

Jun 19, 2007

Rockstar has issued GamesRadar an official response to today's announcement by the BBFC that it has rejected Manhunt 2 for rating in the UK. Here's the statement in full: "We are disappointed with the recent decision by the British Board of Film Classification to refuse classification of Manhunt 2. While we respect the authority of the classification board and will abide by the rules, we emphatically disagree with this particular decision. "Manhunt 2 is an entertainment experience for fans of ...

This is why Manhunt 2 was banned (News)

Jun 19, 2007

As you've no doubt read this morning, Manhunt 2 has been rejected by the BBFC - meaning that no one outside of Rockstar will ever play the game. Except, that is, our magazine comrades at UK NGamer, who bagged the world's first review of the Wii and PS2 splatterfest. The highly positive review, which awarded Manhunt 2 a score of 92%, appears in the latest issue of NGamer, out tomorrow for the UK. So we've scoured it for some key excerpts that might explain why the BBFC has been left feeling ...

Manhunt 2 banned in the UK (News)

Jun 19, 2007

The British Board of Film Classification has rejected Manhunt 2 for its "unremitting bleakness" and "casual sadism." This means you won't be able to buy it legally in the UK, unless Rockstar resubmits a changed version of the game. Here's the BBFC's announcement in full. It makes for interesting reading... “Rejecting a work is a very serious action and one which we do not take lightly. Where possible we try to consider cuts or, in the case of games, modifications which remove the ...

Rockstar reveal macabre mechanics of Manhunt 2 (Feature)

Jun 15, 2007

Friday 15 June 2007 Manhunt was all about tension. It was also about suffocating violent sociopaths with carrier bags, but the barbaric brutality was heightened by an ever-present sense of uneasiness that simply refused to let the player relax - even after a blood-hungry hunter had been successfully decapitated with a length of wire. After giving us an insight into Manhunt 2's environments, developer Rockstar now talks about some of the mechanics that will make Manhunt 2 an even more ...

Sonic, Pokemon and Worms 2 in HGZ #5 (News)

Jun 14, 2007

The free magazine for Sony PSP and Nintendo DS gamers includes Worms Open Warfare 2, Pursuit Force 2, Sonic Rush Adventure and Pokemon Diamond and Pearl previews. It also has reviews of Anno 1701, Superbikes 07, Sim City and more.

Rockstar reveals Manhunt 2's seedy world (Preview)

Jun 8, 2007

There's little doubt that Manhunt 2 is going to be another unsettling journey into gaming's darkest alleyways. We've witnessed the brutality that wait in both the Wii and PS2 versions and we can confirm that Rockstar is priming another genuinely disturbing episode for gamers to endure. But the 18-rated gore is only one aspect of creating a truly traumatic ordeal - the world in which the unholy horrors are acted out must provide a suitably bleak setting that will submerge the player fully into ...

Manhunt 2 backlash begins in Florida (News)

Jun 7, 2007

GamePolitics is reporting via "multiple sources" that Florida Attorney General Bill McCollum has expressed concern over the impending release of Rockstar's controversial game on Nintendo's next-gen ...

Manhunt 2: New playable character? (News)

Jun 1, 2007

Rockstar has kept us in the dark on Manhunt 2, aside from ensuring we're all aware it'll be just as shocking as the original. But a disturbing new update to the official site - and some new shots - hint at a larger, playable role for Leo Kasper, who we originally believed to be a supporting character alongside lead murderer Daniel Lamb. On the site, a grimy new page offers up a recording of Kasper being questioned at the Dixmor Hospital for the Criminally Insane. It's certainly not for the ...

New Manhunt 2 trailer creeps us out (News)

May 31, 2007

With the release of Manhunt 2 just a handful of weeks over the horizon, publisher Rockstar is releasing a trickle of details about the stealth-action stabfest. With a plot that revolves around escaped government test subjects Dr. Danny Lamb and Leo Kasper, the game will feature a ton of creatively gruesome executions, a handful of which you'll get to see in the new trailer below. ...

Gamer's Day Trailer Blow-Out (News)

May 17, 2007

Sony Computer Entertainment America's Gamer's Day 2007 ended yesterday, and today the media was allowed to release their impressions and videos of the event.

Here are all the PlayStation 3, PS2, and PSP trailers and Gameplay clips from the show all compiled into one locaton.

Manhunt 2 (Screenshots)

May 3, 2007

Seven new bloody Manhunt 2 screens (News)

May 3, 2007

Keen to keep the smoking PR train on track Rockstar Games has unleashed a fresh batch of Manhunt 2 shots, which should easily fill your gore quota for the morning. Click the Images tab for the killer new screens. It looks quite good, but if you're wondering how it actually plays you should stick your eyes on our recent eyes-on preview, which should help explain how the face stabbing carnage plays out this time ...

Manhunt 2 - first look (Preview)

Apr 27, 2007

We'll just go ahead and cut to the chase for those of you who've been following the development of Manhunt 2: we've seen the infamous bit where a guy gets his testicles and one of his vertebrae removed by a pair of wire cutters, and yes, it's nasty. Not as nasty as the scene playing out in your head right now - the actual gore is limited to spraying blood and horrible fleshy wrenching noises - but nasty nonetheless. We've also seen a pen broken off in a man's throat, a sex-hotel receptionist ...

Manhunt 2: New trailer, new shots (News)

Apr 13, 2007

Anyone fearing that Manhunt 2 wouldn't have a similarly stomach-churning and disturbing subject matter as the original - are you insane? - can rest easy, thanks to a new trailer, batch of screens and mind-troublingly murky interactive website. All of which flesh out a backdrop to Rockstar's gritty murderfest sequel that's darker than a blackout in a coal mine. The fresh info exposed by this multimedia massacre suggests that Manhunt 2 might also share one of the first game's most atmospheric ...

Killer Manhunt 2 details arise (News)

Apr 11, 2007

After months of sketchy silence regarding Rockstar's next brutal kill-fest, Manhunt 2, details of the twisted plot and new gameplay mechanics have been exposed. According to an online retailer's listings, the main character, Daniel Lamb, is a doctor that escapes an asylum with mental inmate Leo Kasper after a science experiment at a secret research facility goes wrong. Both characters go on the run as they're pursued by The Pickman Project, who wants to conceal the truth about the failed ...

Jack Thompson kicks off at Take-Two AGAIN (News)

Mar 16, 2007

Everybody's favorite anti-violent game activist, Jack Thompson, is once again attacking game publisher Take-Two over the release of Manhunt 2 and GTA IV. Making it clear that he will never give up, Thompson has filed a lawsuit to "prevent the sale of two hyperviolent video games set to be released this year and sold to anyone under 17 years of age." Thompson goes on to state that despite both games receiving 'Mature' ratings from the ESRB ratings board, findings have revealed that "they are ...

Manhunt 2 rips off testicles (News)

Mar 5, 2007

The first razor sharp shards of info on Rockstar's recently announced PS2, PSP and Wii murder mosh, Manhunt 2, have been unsheathed in the latest issue of the UK's Official PlayStation Magazine. And the descriptions of some of the game's bound-for-infamy kills make for pretty gruesome reading. The harshest syringe kill, for example, involves Daniel Lamb, Manhunt 2 's chief murderiser, kicking an enemy to the ground and stomping on him before thrusting the lengthy needle into his foe's eye. ...

Jack Thomspon versus Manhunt 2 (News)

Feb 22, 2007

Lawyer Jack Thomspon is once again protesting against a violent game. In the past he has protested against GTA: San Andreas and not so long ago he tried to ban the game Bully. This time Thompson is trying to ban Rockstar's recently announced Manhunt 2.

Thompson said that some individuals asked him to protest against the new Manhunt game. This would be because a friend of the individuals was murdered by someone who played Manhunt.

This is the letter Jack Thompson wrote about the situation.

"Miami attorney and anti-violent video game activist Jack Thompson has been asked by individuals in the United Kingdom to help stop the distribution of Take-Two / Rockstar's hyperviolent video game Manhunt 2 in that country due out this summer. The game will feature stealth murder and torture. The last version allowed suffocation of victims with plastic bags."

"The original Manhunt was responsible for the bludgeoning death of a British youth by his friend who obsessively played the game. The killer used a hammer just as in the game he played. Take-Two / Rockstar, anticipating the firestorm of criticism with the release of the murder simulator sequel, is lying to the public on both sides of the pond in stating this week that the game had nothing to do with the murder. Take-Two is also stating that the sun does not rise in the east because Take-Two makes no money from its rising in the east. Take-Two has been repeatedly found in the U.S. by the federal government to be guilty of fraud, so what would one expect it to say.

Jack Thompson has agreed to this request from the U.K. Look for this effort to begin shortly given the summer of 2007 release date."

Free magazine for Sony PSP and Nintendo DS launches (News)

Feb 21, 2007

Gamerzines, who have already launched free Xbox 360 and PC games magazines, have just published the first issue of HGZine. Handheld Gamerzine covers Nintendo DS and Sony PSP games, and the first issue is packed with reviews of Sid Meier's Pirates, Mario vs Donkey Kong 2, Ghost Rider, Castlevania, Dungeon Siege and more. There are previews of Pokemon Diamond and Pearl, Zelda Phantom Hourglass, Manhunt 2, Driver 76 and an exclusive interview with Burnout Detonator Senior Producer, Nick Channon.

As with other Gamerzines, the magazine is written by professional games journalists and published for free in PDF format. The magazine is enhanced with video and multimedia.

Manhunt 2 goes multiplayer? (News)

Feb 13, 2007

Here at GamesRadar, thinly veiled publicity mailings are nothing new; every so often, we'll get an envelope that's empty except for a "security badge" with a character's likeness, or a memo on official-looking letterhead that turns out to be a promo for some upcoming event. Sometimes these hint at interesting things, as does the "internal memo" we received today from "Dixmor Hospital for the Criminally Insane." Packed with two bloodstained plastic hospital bracelets bearing the names "Lamb, ...

Rockstar jumps to Manhunt 2's defense (News)

Feb 8, 2007

Rockstar has moved quickly to defend the recently announced Manhunt 2, firing a pre-emptive strike before the inevitable controversy war initiates. Speaking to MCV, a spokesperson for the company said that the sequel is clearly aimed at an adult audience and that "Rockstar submits every game to the appropriate bodies for rating and classification". "We anticipate that it will receive an 18+ rating," the spokesperson said. "Manhunt 2 is a chilling and compelling drama and is only appropriate ...