GamesRadar - Manhunt 2

Study: Wii Controls Don't Induce Violence (News)

Nov 24, 2008

A recent study at Villanova University shows that games using motion control don't influence the aggression in players any more than standard controls do. Dr. Patrick Markey examined individuals playing Manhunt 2 and Tiger Woods PGA Tour 2008 (otherwise known as the only AO Wii game in existence).

GameRush.nl: Manhunt 2 this friday (News)

Oct 28, 2008

Rockstar Games confirmed that the releaseschedules from local distributors are correct. This friday Manhunt 2 will finally be released in liberal Holland and the rest of Europe. Manhunt 2 will be available on Wii, PSP and PS2.

The game was delayed for a long time a caused all kinds of discussion due to its explicit content. The BBFC has been under heavy critique from media and government, and the Byron report - following the Manhunt 2 release - caused lots of discussion once again. What the future holds for the BBFC is yet unknown, but Manhunt 2 will see daylight next friday.

The game will be available for €39,99 on Wii and PS2 and for €29,99 on PSP.

No Manhunt 2 date despite Nintendo claim (News)

Jun 24, 2008

Rockstar has declined to confirm Nintendo's claim that Manhunt 2 is due out for Wii in Europe this August.

"We have no confirmed release date set for Manhunt 2 in Europe," a Rockstar spokesperson told Eurogamer this afternoon.

Eleven Classic Jack Thompson Face-palms (Feature)

Jun 10, 2008

Now up to his ears in charges of professional misconduct, anti-game activist and car crash of tragic human comedy Jack Thompson may well be in the twilight of his legal career. We decided to pay tribute to him in recompense for all the LOLs he's provided by cataloguing an archive of his greatest and funniest screw ups over the last two decades. ...

Banned in Europe (Feature)

May 13, 2008

Sega Superstars Tennis looked like an innocent enough release. How could a game about Sonic, Ulala and NiGHTS ever risk being banned in Europe? Or so you might think. Welcome to the crazy world of gaming politics, where zombies hug you and countries issue blanket bans ...

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. ...

MP blasts video game release (News)

Mar 20, 2008

A Kent MP has slammed a decision by the Video Appeals Committee to overturn a ban on the controversial video game Manhunt 2.

It's the latest in a series of setbacks in Canterbury and Whitstable MP Julian Brazier's campaign to overhaul the process for deciding age certificates for films, DVDs and video games.

BBFC to get the axe after Manhunt madness? (News)

Mar 20, 2008

MCV reports that whilst Manhunt 2 has finally been cleared for release, its convoluted journey to retail has exposed the inherent problems with the current games classification system, say commentators.

And now, ahead of Dr. Tanya Byron's report on video game classification, the future of the BBFC as a viable option for games classification has been thrown into doubt.

New Manhunt 2 release date forthcoming (News)

Mar 14, 2008

GamesIndustry.Biz reports that following the earlier news that Video Appeals Committee had reaffirmed its decision regarding the release of Manhunt 2, and the BBFC's admission that further action on its part was likely to yield realistic results, Rockstar is now working towards a new release date for the title in the UK.

The version of the game to be released in the UK has been confirmed as the same one currently available in the US under a Mature rating - the version which was rejected by the BBFC the second time around.

A Rockstar spokesperson told GamesIndustry.biz that due to the news of the VAC's decision only breaking earlier today, no official decision had yet been made on a release date, but discussions were expected to take place shortly.

DCMS: Manhunt 2 a BBFC/VAC matter - Government stresses no evidence of link between videogames and real life violence (News)

Mar 14, 2008

GamesIndustry.Biz reports that the UK government's Department for Culture, Media and Sport has told GamesIndustry.biz that it has no plans at the moment to intervene in the planned release of Manhunt 2 in the UK.

"The classification of Manhunt 2 is a matter for the BBFC and the Video Appeals Committee," said a spokesperson, after today's news that the VAC had reaffirmed its decision to back Rockstar in an appeal over the BBFC's refusal to certify the game.

"It is important to note that there is no conclusive evidence of any link between playing computer games and violent behaviour in real life," the spokesperson continued. "Our concern is to make sure that inappropriate material is kept away from children.

Manhunt 2 granted UK release (News)

Mar 14, 2008

Rockstar's Manhunt 2 has finally been granted a UK release after a lengthy legal battle with the British Board of Film Classification.

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."

On the trail of Manhunt 2 (News)

Feb 13, 2008

Manhunt 2 is the most controversial video game in history. Banned last June by the British Board of Film Classification, it is at the centre of a legal row that is defining what is and what is not acceptable in video games. But what makes this game so objectionable?

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.

BBFC Reconsidering Manhunt 2 Rating (News)

Dec 10, 2007

Currently, Manhunt 2 is not legally available for sale in the U.K. but that could all change. Update: BBFC may grant the game an 18 certificate.

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.

Leaked: NIMF's Annual Video Game Report Card (News)

Dec 4, 2007

Kotaku's Brian Crecente has a leaked copy of the National Institute on Media and the Family's annual Media Wise Video Game Report Card, set to be officially released tomorrow. This year's report card is broken into five parts:

¿ The MediaWise Video Game Report Card
¿ The Buying Guide
¿ The ESRB Rating System and Ratings Education Efforts
¿ The Retailer Ratings Education and Enforcement Surveys
¿ Annual MediaWise-Harris Interactive Poll of Kids and Parents

Kotaku gives a quick summary for each part.

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.

BBFC: No proven connection between games and violence (News)

Nov 27, 2007

27th Nov, 2007 In what may seem the worst tactical move since Hitler started eyeing up Russia, the British Board of Film Classification has admitted during Rockstar's appeal against Manhunt 2's continued ban in the UK that "there is insufficient evidence to prove, as a fact, there is a causal connection between violent games and behavioural harm". The fact itself is not news, but the admission at such a key time for the BBFC certainly is. So where does this leave the ban situation? Well the ...

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."

Manhunt 2 in trouble again (News)

Nov 20, 2007

20th Nov, 2007 Duck and cover people, its happening again… In a move likely to incite gamers to either rally to vocal outcry or roll their eyes and yawn, a group of US senators is still campaigning against Rockstars Manhunt 2, nearly a month after the game was passed and released. The group of four, consisting of Joe Lieberman, Sam Brownback, Evan Bayh and Hillary Clinton (surprise!) is now gunning for the games rating to be upgraded to the effective banning of an AO, even after its ...

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."

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.

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.

Manhunt 2 Eye-to-Eye on CBS News (News)

Oct 31, 2007

CBS News investigates Manhunt 2. Daniel Sieberg talks to a gaming enthusiast and a child psychiatrist about the controversial video game targeted for teens.

Katie Couric also comments that she believes the game can be dangerous for kids who play it, and could be dangerous to others because it will make these kids violent. She encourages parents to not let their kids play this form of "entertainment". This additional video can be found here: http://www.cbsnews.com/sections/i_video/main500251.shtml?id=3432308n

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 (Screenshots)

Oct 29, 2007

Manhunt 2 (Review)

Oct 29, 2007

Oct 29, 2007 It's been dogged by months of controversy, moral outrage, an outright ban in the UK 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 ...

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 ...

Legal loophole allows Manhunt 2 to be sold in UK (News)

Oct 24, 2007

Gory game Manhunt 2 can legally be sold to UK consumers as a download, despite the refusal of the British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) to grant the title a certificate for sale as a physical product in shops.

The latest twist to the tale of the controversial title is the result of a loophole in the UK's 1984 Video Recordings Act, spotted by Phill Carnell, a lawyer with legal firm CMS Cameron McKenna, and revealed to Register Hardware.

Downloaded games, he said, do not need an age-suitability classification, such as 15 or 18, because the Act, which mandates the BBFC's certification programme and forces retailers to obey the classifications, only covers physical products.

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 ...

Take Two confirms former Sony Europe employee leaked Manhunt 2 beta (News)

Oct 22, 2007

After following up on available clues GamePolitics has learned that the leak came from PlayStation Europe.

Last week GP reported on a panicky Sky News piece which saw impending doom in the leak of the early PS2 build of the controversial game.

The leak itself wasn't news to the video game community, having been widely reported in September. However, its backstory was. Beyond the original cracking claim by the mysterious Team Slonik, no one was saying much about how the controversial game found its way onto the Net.

Wii's motion sensing 'has not affected' any BBFC rating decisions (News)

Oct 19, 2007

The BBFC has gone on record to say that the Manhunt 2's use of the Wii motion-sensing controller had no impact on its decision to ban the game.

In the past few months, the Rockstar London horror game has snared headlines in the US and across Europe as publisher Take Two and its development teams were confronted with Adults Only ratings from the ESRB in America and banning by a number of European countries.

The game has since been altered and re-rated by the ESRB, gaining a Mature rating and imminent release in the US - however the British Board of Film Classification has maintained its ban on the Wii, PS2 and PSP game, despite Rockstar making alterations.

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.

Rockstar's bloodstained Wii (News)

Oct 4, 2007

Oct 3, 2007 Clearly, the Wii's slab like design makes it a perfect blunt instrument. Thanks to modern day wonders like laws against reckless killing and workplace health and safety guidelines, though, we can guarantee that, despite its gruesome appearance, this goreflecked Wii won't be appearing as Exhibit A in any upcoming murder trial. Far from being a hastily improvised weapon, this Wii is actually a Rockstar-designed prize to celebrate Manhunt 2's Halloween release in the US. So, by ...

Manhunt 2: Nintendo Wii takes a murderous turn (News)

Oct 2, 2007

USA Today reports:

The horror title Manhunt 2 will hit stores on Halloween for Nintendo Wii and Sony PlayStation 2. Since the Wii version uses the motion-sensitive controllers, it literally gives players the hands of a killer...

Players take the role of a psychiatric escapee who has murderous rages as he tries to uncover his past. On the Wii, players physically make killing motions with the controllers - slashing for stabs and lifting to strangle - rather than simply pushing buttons...

"It is a technological fit, and the gameplay works," says Newsweek's N'gai Croal. "But culturally, it's not a fit."

. . .

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.

UK government responds to Manhunt 2 petition (News)

Sep 18, 2007

The UK government has finally responded to an online petition filed after Manhunt 2 was banned by the BBFC.

"The Government is satisfied with the BBFC's procedure and with the provisions for appeal, and will not be intervening in this process," said a statement on the Prime Minister's website.

The government statement referenced the BBFC's guidelines and noted that it "uses its powers to reject works extremely rarely." It also noted that there is an appeals procedure "which the game's producers are apparently pursuing."

Manhunt 2 lives! (Preview)

Sep 12, 2007

People rose to their feet, the band began to play and there was much rejoicing: Rockstar triumphantly returned to our offices with its newest build of Manhunt 2. In case you've been laid out, coma-stricken under a rock with no electricity, you've probably heard tell about the drama surrounding Rockstar's latest survival horror nightmare. Cruelly stamped with an Adults Only rating by ESRB, the game brought down the wrath of moral crusaders everywhere, was effectively deemed unreleasable by ...

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.

Manhunt 2 Leaked (News)

Sep 7, 2007

A copy of the PS2 version of Manhunt 2 has appeared on torrent sites, allegedly having been leaked early. This download has not yet been confirmed as genuine, and www.projectmanhunt.com feels is neccesary to remind users that it is illegal to download this file.

The source of this leak has not been revealed, although a 'Team Slonik' is taking responsibility for posting the file on the internet

Manhunt 2 game leaked on to the Internet (News)

Sep 7, 2007

07 Sept 07 GamesRadar has learned that Rockstar Game's Manhunt 2 has been leaked onto the Internet. Rockstar Games in the UK are yet to make a comment on the situation. Gamers may remember in October 2004 pirated Halo 2 code was leaked onto the Internet via newsgroups almost a month before it appeared in shops. However, the situation is particularly worrying for Rockstar Games as Manhunt 2 is currently not rated for sale in the UK. Furthermore, despite the downloading and playing of leaked ...

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.

Manhunt bags European release (News)

Aug 30, 2007

Aug 30 2007 Manhunt 2 is set to launch in Europe after government officials in Holland declined to restrain the release of Rockstar's infamous sequel. The game, recently re-rated in America in an edited form, will be the same uncut version banned by the BBFC. Justice Minister Ernst Hirsch Ballin informed the Dutch Parliment that: "The current law is based on the principle that every adult is considered capable of deciding for himself which games he wants to play, unless it contains illegal ...

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.

The Manhunt is back on (News)

Aug 24, 2007

Aug 24, 2007 Labeled as "cruel sadism," derided both publicly and within Rockstar, eventually banned, subsequently subject to a slew of supportive petitions; more of the public consciousness has been directed at Manhunt 2 than the average show of CSI. Now seven months of turmoil later, the Entertainment Software Board (ESRB) has reclassified the title from "Adults Only" to "Mature" in North America, allowing it to be sold to 17-year-olds and stocked in family stores like Wal-Mart - but only ...

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 (Preview)

Aug 9, 2007

[Editors note: Our sister mag from the UK, NGamer was lucky enough to review the Wii version of Manhunt 2 before it was banned outright. But dont worry though, as soon as Rockstar works out all the kinks, well kindly review the final version. But for now, direct your eyes towards the review of the game youll never play.] Manhunt 2 is one of the best games on Wii. The astonishing level of brutality is an integral part of the experience, and probably the aspect that delighted fans and appalled ...

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 ...

Nintendo Prez Raves About Wii 'Mario Kart,' Defends 'Manhunt 2,' Shares 'Endless Ocean' Secrets (News)

Jul 23, 2007

Last year some people were worried that the Wii console overseen by Nintendo of America President Reggie Fils-Aime was driving some gamers to accidentally hurl their controllers through their TV screens.

A week ago, at E3, Fils-Aime helped unveil the Wii Balance Board, a bathroom-scale-shaped controller designed for Wii-enabled full-body yoga, hula-hooping and skiing video game action (see "Nintendo At E3: Mad 'Mario' Titles On The Way; Wii Zapper Could Be A Future Shock"). Might Nintendo be concerned that the Board will drive gamers to accidentally hurl themselves through their TV screens?

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 ...

Manhunt 2 with Multiple Endings (News)

Jul 10, 2007

Recently delayed Manhunt 2 for the Wii and PS2 will have multiple endings that are determined by the player's choices.

More details provided by Kotaku.

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.

Jack Thompson praises UK games ratings (News)

Jul 7, 2007

America could learn a thing or two from the UK's games rating system, according to US attorney and notorious industry agitator Jack Thompson.

In the wake of controversy incited by Manhunt 2's violent content and the UK's banning of the game, Thompson has praised the BBFC's stance and the system by which games are classified in Britain.

"The UK does it much better than the US, which rates a game that's inappropriate for minors and then sells it to them," he told MCV. "I think the UK has got it right. You rate a game and you can't sell it to people if it falls in a certain category ¿ the rating actually has a sanction, whereas in the US the rating means nothing."

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 ...

Ex-ELSPA Bennett Slams Successor's Manhunt 2 Stance (News)

Jun 30, 2007

Roger Bennett is sorely missed. The ex-director general of UK games regulator ELSPA has come out strongly in favour of Rockstar over the BBFC in the case of the recent Manhunt 2 ban, while strongly criticising ELSPA's decision to quickly jump to the support of the censors.

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.

Manhunt 2 "not an image issue" for Nintendo, says Fils-Aime (News)

Jun 28, 2007

Nintendo of America boss Reggie Fils-Aime has spoken out for the first time on the controversy surrounding Rockstar title Manhunt 2.

Speaking to Newsweek Fils-Aime said, "This is not an image issue. Wii welcomes games rated E, T and M. We haven't approved AO-rated games. I doubt we ever will."

According to Fils-Aime, Manhunt 2 is "a game rated outside our spectrum, outside any manufacturer's spectrum".

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 ...