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Manhunt 2 finally gets the go-ahead for release in the UK

18 certificate granted despite BBFC concerns

Manhunt 2 finally gets the go-ahead for release in the UK
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PSP
| Manhunt 2

The Manhunt 2 saga has been an ongoing one. And one that, in our opinion, shouldn't really bear too much consequence to PSP gamers anyway seeing as the game isn't actually that good.

Still, the outright ban of a video game is always going to be relatively big news, if only because it brings the old debate of whether censorship is right or wrong, as well as the less general concern over whether the censors themselves judge video games in a harsher light than they would a similarly violent film.

Anyway, those passing by Rockstar Games' London offices today might well hear the sound of champagne corks popping as the company now has the green light to release the game in the UK with an 18 certificate.

The BBFC twice rejected Manhunt 2 for certification but its decision has now been successfully challenged by the Video Appeals Committee before the High Court.

David Cooke, Director of the BBFC said in a statement: "As I have said previously, we never take rejection decisions lightly, and they always involve a complex balance of considerations. We twice rejected Manhunt 2, and then pursued a judicial review challenge, because we considered, after exceptionally thorough examination, that it posed a real potential harm risk.

"However, the Video Appeals Committee has again exercised its independent scrutiny. It is now clear, in the light of this decision, and our legal advice, that we have no alternative but to issue an '18' certificate to the game."

Right. Good. Perhaps we can stop mentioning the game, then, and focus on something more worthy. What does everyone think of Patapon?

Kath Brice
Kath Brice
Kath gave up a job working with animals five years ago to join the world of video game journalism, which now sees her running our DS section. With so many male work colleagues, many have asked if she notices any difference.