Aliens vs. Predator refused classification in Australia

Australia‘s Office of Film Literature Classification (OFLC) is continuing its hard-line stance against graphic video game violence.

Sega’s PC game Aliens vs. Predator has received the refused classification (RC) rating, making it the sixth game this year to be deemed unfit for release in Australia. AvP joins Risen, Sexy Poker, Left 4 Dead 2, Necrovision and CrimeCraft on this rapidly lengthening list.

Games.on.net got a copy of the OFLC report. It sounds as if the group really, really did not like the Predator’s combat style.

The Predator collects “trophies” by explicitly ripping off human heads, their spinal columns dangling from severed necks. Heads can be twisted completely around in order to break a character’s neck. Eyes can be stabbed through or gouged, leaving empty, bloodied eye sockets. It is noted that a player is able to combine maneuvers together in quick succession, which further increases impact; for example, a Predator can stab a character through both eyes with its wrist blade, and then rip off their head, with spinal column still attached. Extensive post mortem damage, including decapitation and dismemberment, is also possible.

So, in its current form, this game is nowhere close to receiving classification in Australia. Sega can appeal the ruling, or it could go the route EA did with Left 4 Dead 2 , releasing a much less violent version.

If the OFLC keeps this up, Australia is probably going to see an explosion in the game import industry.

Read [Games.on.net] Also Read [Game Politics]