Well, it’s now official. The ESRB has rated Manhunt 2 as an Adult’s Only (AO) game.
From Take Two (via GamePolitics):
Manhunt 2 was created for mature audiences and we strongly believe it should receive an M (Mature) rating, aligning it with similar content created in other forms of media. We are exploring our options with regard to the rating of Manhunt 2.
So how is this going to affect the average gamer? Well, for starters, you aren’t going to able to rent this game anywhere. Blockbuster and Gamefly have already confirmed they will not carry any AO rated games. Beyond that, most stores aren’t going to keep this out on the shelves. So you might not be able to just waltz into Best Buy and pick up a copy.
It’s already been banned in one part of the world, and given the dreaded AO rating here in the US. Maybe Take Two needs to look into toning the game down a bit if they want to make any money.
What are the odds we see He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named on TV tonight talking about this?
Man, I hope they do tone it down in time for release. Not only do I want to play the game, but I would like it if Rockstar’s games on the Wii are successful.