Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[AO-rated PC version of Manhunt 2 releasing next week]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/31/ao-rated-pc-version-of-manhunt-2-releasing-next-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/31/ao-rated-pc-version-of-manhunt-2-releasing-next-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/31/ao-rated-pc-version-of-manhunt-2-releasing-next-week/#comments If you thought Manhunt 2 had reached the pinnacle of mature content in video games, you better guess again. The controversy-garnering title will be re-released on Direct2Drive next week for $29.99 -- only this time around, it's packing an AO rating. As those who lived through Mahuntgate surely remember, that was planned to be the original rating for the game, before the ESRB rolled up, and was all like "what? You want to stick shards of glass into another man's ear? No. No, sir."

Rockstar has remained mum about what the new rating will entail, but our guess is that it will incorporate more graphic forms of violence, and perhaps a few extra dirty words. We've contacted Rockstar to get more specific details on the mature-r content, and to find out when we can expect the Early Childhood version of the game to hit store shelves.

[Via Big Download]

JoystiqAO-rated PC version of Manhunt 2 releasing next week originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 31 Oct 2009 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adults-onlyaodirect2drivedownloadmanhunt-2Manhunt2ratingRockStarSat, 31 Oct 2009 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[ESRB rates 'AO' version of Manhunt 2 for PC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/24/esrb-rates-ao-version-of-manhunt-2-for-pc/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/24/esrb-rates-ao-version-of-manhunt-2-for-pc/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/24/esrb-rates-ao-version-of-manhunt-2-for-pc/#comments
Violent game poster child Manhunt 2 is headed to Windows PC according to the Entertainment Software Rating Board's online database. It appears to contain slightly different content from that found in 2008's M-rated console releases, as the PC entry has been rated "AO - Adults Only." Manhunt 2 initially had an AO rating in the States, but it was later changed to Mature (thus allowing it onto store shelves).

Will the PC game feature all of the stuff that was deemed too mature for consoles? We've put in word to Rockstar for clarification and will update the story when we hear something.

JoystiqESRB rates 'AO' version of Manhunt 2 for PC originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 24 Aug 2009 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>esrbmanhuntmanhunt-2rockstarMon, 24 Aug 2009 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Phew!: Waggle doesn't produce murderers]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/17/phew-waggle-doesnt-produce-murderers/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/17/phew-waggle-doesnt-produce-murderers/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/17/phew-waggle-doesnt-produce-murderers/#commentsFiled under:


There is a popular viewpoint pushed by those who campaign against the likes of Manhunt 2, and it runs a little like this: motion-controlled on-screen violence is more likely to corrupt players than that which is played through pressing buttons. Senators have used this argument in the past, as have journalists, but they're both wrong. Gloriously, wonderfully wrong. Who says so? Science says so, that's who.

A new study from the labs of Villanova University has revealed that swinging a Wiimote and pressing a button generated the same amount of "hostility and aggressive thoughts in" 118 college students (68 female, 50 male). The participants played either Manhunt 2 or Tiger Woods PGA Tour 2008, with each individual having their levels of "psychoticism" tested before and after play. Nobody completely flipped out, and whether flailing with a controller or pressing a button, levels of hostility remained even -- and thus another anti-gaming myth crumbled.


[Via Game|Life]

JoystiqPhew!: Waggle doesn't produce murderers originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 17 Nov 2008 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>controversymanhunt-2motionrockstarsciencetiger-woodsviolencewaggleMon, 17 Nov 2008 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Manhunt 2 gets UK release date]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/05/manhunt-2-gets-uk-release-date/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/05/manhunt-2-gets-uk-release-date/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/05/manhunt-2-gets-uk-release-date/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Readers currently residing in the United Kingdom -- your wait is over. At long last, you'll be able to experience one of 2007's best selling, most critically acclaimed titles -- Rockstar's controversial thriller, Manhunt 2. After being turned down by the British Board of Film Classification for its "unremitting bleakness and callousness of tone," a reworked, SFEurope version of the game will be launched in the UK for the Wii, PS2 and PSP on October 31. We know, we can barely contain our excitement either.

Sure, it may lack a few of the more grisly elements included in the inappropriate North American version, but if your hands are shaking with anticipation as you read this report -- as we're sure they are -- we imagine you'll be able to overlook a few omitted acts of power drill-related violence.

JoystiqManhunt 2 gets UK release date originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 05 Oct 2008 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bbfcmanhugmanhunt-2PS2PSPrelease-daterockstarukWiiSun, 05 Oct 2008 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Manhunt 2's extra-scary, extra-late UK date]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/03/manhunt-2s-extra-scary-extra-late-uk-date/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/03/manhunt-2s-extra-scary-extra-late-uk-date/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/03/manhunt-2s-extra-scary-extra-late-uk-date/#commentsFiled under: ,

Rockstar has taken a long-form approach to scaring people with Manhunt 2. They've waited very quietly, very still, until everyone in the UK forgot that it was there, and then they JUMPED OUT AND ANNOUNCED A RELEASE DATE! "BOO! Manhunt 2 is coming out on October 31!"

This version of Manhunt 2 is different from the one the US got, having been "heavily reworked" (as IGN describes it) in a desperate bid for BBFC approval. They got the right to release the game in December, but by then Halloween had already passed, and what's the point of releasing a horror game on any other date?

JoystiqManhunt 2's extra-scary, extra-late UK date originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 03 Oct 2008 20:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bbfccensorshiphorrorlolmanhunt-2manhunt2rockstarFri, 03 Oct 2008 20:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Mad World violence anemic compared to Manhunt 2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/25/mad-world-violence-anemic-compared-to-manhunt-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/25/mad-world-violence-anemic-compared-to-manhunt-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/25/mad-world-violence-anemic-compared-to-manhunt-2/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Mad World, with its inky wellspring of monochrome gore, will likely give those opposed to virtual violence another round of ammunition, replacing Manhunt 2 as the industry whipping boy of choice. An unfair comparison, at least according to seasoned game journo Beth Dillon, who cites the controversy magnet's realistic take on violence as much more disturbing than Mad World's "contrasting and beautiful" approach.

There's no question that Mad World will stand out like a bludgeoned thumb among the Wii's more family-friendly library, but Dillon writes that where Platinum Games' upcoming action opus separates itself from Manhunt 2 is in its sense of style. The bigger issue, as she she sees it, is the effect motion-sensitive controls have on players playing violent games -- regardless if they're realistic or more over-the-top -- something we fully expect to have society's ills pinned on the game industry's already swollen posterior for years to come.

JoystiqMad World violence anemic compared to Manhunt 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 25 Aug 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Actioncontroversymad-worldMadWorldmanhunt-2Nintendoplatinum-gamesrockstarsegatake-twoviolenceWiiMon, 25 Aug 2008 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Manhunt 2 in the UK: Rockstar knows nothing about it]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/24/manhunt-2-in-the-uk-rockstar-knows-nothing-about-it/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/24/manhunt-2-in-the-uk-rockstar-knows-nothing-about-it/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/24/manhunt-2-in-the-uk-rockstar-knows-nothing-about-it/#commentsFiled under:


A lengthy, to-and-fro legal battle between the BBFC and Rockstar prevented Manhunt 2 from being released in the UK, with the BBFC eventually giving up and granting the game an "18" certificate in March. Having won its right to lop limbs clean off be released in Britain, it was no surprise that the title appeared in Nintendo's latest European release schedule this morning.

But wait, for there's another twist to this twistiest of sagas! A Rockstar spokesperson contacted Eurogamer earlier today to reveal that it "has no confirmed release date set for Manhunt 2 in Europe." Ho boy. If any Europeans out there are beginning to feel particularly indifferent about Manhunt 2 at this stage, we can't say we blame you.

JoystiqManhunt 2 in the UK: Rockstar knows nothing about it originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 24 Jun 2008 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bbfccensorcensorshipeuropemanhuntmanhunt-2rockstarukTue, 24 Jun 2008 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wario Land Shake gets dated for Europe, among others]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/24/wario-land-shake-gets-dated-for-europe-among-others/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/24/wario-land-shake-gets-dated-for-europe-among-others/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/24/wario-land-shake-gets-dated-for-europe-among-others/#commentsFiled under:

We've been following Wario Land: The Shake Dimension for quite some time now. After the numerous scans and screens, we're about ready to hear something on a release date for the game. Well, as ready as we are in North America, it looks like Europe is the only region with a cemented release for the game. Wario Land: The Shake Dimension will release in Europe on September 26th.

Aside from that game, Nintendo of Europe also dished out release dates for plenty of other Wii games, including Baroque (July 18) and Manhunt 2 (August). To check out the full list, head on past the break.

Continue reading Wario Land Shake gets dated for Europe, among others

JoystiqWario Land Shake gets dated for Europe, among others originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 24 Jun 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atlusbaroqueeuropemanhunt-2releasesukwariowario-land-shakeTue, 24 Jun 2008 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gamefly sales continue to tempt us]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/17/gamefly-sales-continue-to-tempt-us/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/17/gamefly-sales-continue-to-tempt-us/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/17/gamefly-sales-continue-to-tempt-us/#commentsFiled under:

Gamefly is having a sale on some of its used-but-in-great-condition games again, also offering free shipping to spice up the deal a bit. As always, we're passings these savings along to you, while picking out a few we think are worth highlighting for their respective prices:
Click on the picture or "source" link to see the full list of Wii games, but keep in mind that you might be able to find some of them cheaper elsewhere.

JoystiqGamefly sales continue to tempt us originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 17 Jun 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>attorney-at-lawbleachcorruptiondewys-adventuredragon-bladegameflyharvey-birdmanmanhunt-2metroidmetroid-primemetroid-prime-3nightsshattered-bladesmgsoul-calibur-legendssuper-mario-galaxyvictorious-boxers-revolutionwrath-of-fireTue, 17 Jun 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Murder training for cheap at Amazon]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/15/murder-training-for-cheap-at-amazon/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/15/murder-training-for-cheap-at-amazon/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/15/murder-training-for-cheap-at-amazon/#commentsFiled under:

Remember all the controversy over Manhunt 2? Now it might be time to see what all the fuss was about, as Amazon has it marked down to $19.99 (for today only). Most people who've played the game would probably agree that it's not worth a purchase at full price, but at half its cost you might be a little bit tempted -- if you're a crazy homicidal murderer, that is, or wish to become one. After all, those are the only kind of people who play Manhunt 2, right?

Also, we think it's a bit of a strange choice for Amazon to offer as a deal. We wonder if they'll be getting an angry letter from Jack Thompson any time soon.

JoystiqMurder training for cheap at Amazon originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 15 May 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazondealdeal-of-the-daymanhunt-2manhunt2rockstarThu, 15 May 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Manhunt 2 UK ban officially lifted]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/14/manhunt-2-uk-ban-officially-lifted/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/14/manhunt-2-uk-ban-officially-lifted/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/14/manhunt-2-uk-ban-officially-lifted/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


After a tumultuous history of appeals, appeals, and more appeals, the British High Court has finally lifted the ban on Rockstar's controversial title Manhunt 2. The PS2 and Nintendo Wii versions of the game have been cleared for release in the UK, and will carry an "18" rating.

The Video Appeals Committee has stood its ground regarding the release of the censored version of Manhunt 2, stating that it depicts no greater violence than any other release in Britain bearing an 18 certificate. The British Board of Film Classifications has finally seen the light, so it seems, and recognizes that the title will indeed land on shelves without further interruption.

No word yet on when Manhunt 2 will finally be released in the UK, or if anyone still cares about last year's controversial game.

JoystiqManhunt 2 UK ban officially lifted originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 14 Mar 2008 10:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bbfcmanhuntmanhunt-2manhunt2PS2rockstarWiiFri, 14 Mar 2008 10:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Manhunt actually getting released in UK]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/14/manhunt-actually-getting-released-in-uk/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/14/manhunt-actually-getting-released-in-uk/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/14/manhunt-actually-getting-released-in-uk/#commentsFiled under:


The perpetually banned Manhunt 2 will finally be released in the UK, after a lengthy battle against the BBFC. David Cooke, president of the BBFC stated: "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."

Rockstar must be relieved that their game can finally be released -- however, after all the legal battles, we wonder if anyone will buy the poorly-reviewed title.

[Thanks, Bill!]

JoystiqManhunt actually getting released in UK originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 14 Mar 2008 09:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>banbbfcmanhuntmanhunt-2rockstarFri, 14 Mar 2008 09:15:00 EST<![CDATA[The Wii's M-rated offerings rounded up]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/13/the-wiis-m-rated-offerings-rounded-up/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/13/the-wiis-m-rated-offerings-rounded-up/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/13/the-wiis-m-rated-offerings-rounded-up/#commentsFiled under:


Did you know that there are currently 17 M-rated games on the Wii? Some of them, like Target Terror, aren't out just yet, and some, like Escape from Bug Island, have already been largely forgotten to history. OMG Nintendo has an interesting look at six of the most important M-rated titles on the system, from No More Heroes to games that aren't No More Heroes. They also delve into some violent "classics" like Time Killers.

Each game gets a short description and a score, but what's interesting to us is that there's a description of the gore content of each game. It reminds us of the bizarre fixation we as gamers (and the game developers) have with violence. If something is "made for adults," we all immediately know why, and are usually right: it's bloody.

JoystiqThe Wii's M-rated offerings rounded up originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 13 Mar 2008 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>escape-from-bug-islandmanhunt-2matureno-more-heroesresident-evil-4Thu, 13 Mar 2008 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Trucha Signer paves the way for game mods]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/29/trucha-signer-paves-the-way-for-game-mods/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/29/trucha-signer-paves-the-way-for-game-mods/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/29/trucha-signer-paves-the-way-for-game-mods/#commentsFiled under:

Presented with a new toy to play with, Wii hackers have gone right to work producing a variety of game mods with the recently released Trucha Signer. For those of you out of the loop, the application allows programmers to run augmented games on chipped Wiis -- the gore-enabled Manhunt 2 mod is a good example of the software's possibilities.

So far, a lot of the developments focus on making it easier to play pirated copies of Super Smash Bros. Brawl, but there are a few non-piracy-related modifications, too:
  • Change the credits and increase character speed in Mario Strikers Charged
  • Play Manhunt 2 in Italian or German
  • Swap character movesets in Super Smash Bros. Brawl
  • Invincibility mode in Manhunt 2
So, once you're tired of pirating Super Smash Bros. Brawl, make sure to test these out!

JoystiqTrucha Signer paves the way for game mods originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 29 Feb 2008 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bugcensorisomanhuntmanhunt-2mario-strikersmodchippiracysmash-bros-brawltrucha-signerFri, 29 Feb 2008 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Trucha Signer opens new Wii hacking possibilities]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/27/trucha-signer-opens-new-wii-hacking-possibilities/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/27/trucha-signer-opens-new-wii-hacking-possibilities/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/27/trucha-signer-opens-new-wii-hacking-possibilities/#commentsFiled under:



The Trucha Signer is the latest tool to hit the Wii hacking scene, enables kids at home to "modify the contents of a Wii ISO and then re-sign it with an electronic signature the Wii will accept." So, does this mean you'll be able to play pirated games without modding your console? No, not at all.

From what we understand, whenever someone alters the code of a Wii game, the resulting product will not match its signature, and the disc will be rejected. Using an undocumented bug, Trucha Signer will resign the code of an adapted ISO (disk image for storing data on a CD-ROM), allowing you to load the disc successfully onto a modded Wii. We're not sure yet what's possible with this new development, but we've already heard a wide range of fantasy scenarios -- downgrading firmware, copying VC games, switching regions, etc.

Already, GBAtemp forumer Mr.O has posted instructions for "enabling gore" in Manhunt 2 (chipped Wii required). Keep in mind that Nintendo can patch this exploit at any time with a firmware update.

[Via GBAtemp]

JoystiqTrucha Signer opens new Wii hacking possibilities originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 27 Feb 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bugcensormanhuntmanhunt-2modchiptrucha-signerWed, 27 Feb 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[More Manhunt 2 dramarama]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/25/more-manhunt-2-dramarama/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/25/more-manhunt-2-dramarama/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/25/more-manhunt-2-dramarama/#commentsFiled under:

If you're familiar with the Manhunt 2 saga, you'll know that things were looking good for Rockstar. The company recently won an appeal against the BBFC, meaning that the controversial game could finally be rated and sold in stores in the UK. The BBFC had one last trick up its sleeve, however. The board essentially appealed the appeal by bringing the Video Appeals Committee's decision under judicial review. That's where we last left off.

Unfortunately for Rockstar, the High Court sided with the BBFC. The VAC must now reconsider its appeal, which for all intents and purposes probably means, "Change your decision to agree with the BBFC, or else."

During the trial, the BBFC argued that the VAC's decision undermined the board's role as the watchdogs of entertainment. This may be true, but what is the point of having a Video Appeals Committee if it's not able to uphold appeals? This is also a huge blow to Rockstar, because it gives the company little hope of ever being able to sell the game in the UK.

Rockstar is also currently dealing with criticism in the UK for its new rendition of Bully, which is coming to the Wii and Xbox 360 later this year.

[Via Games Industry]

JoystiqMore Manhunt 2 dramarama originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 25 Jan 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appealbbfcbritaincensormanhunt-2rockstarukvacFri, 25 Jan 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[British High Court upholds Manhunt 2 ban]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/25/british-high-court-upholds-manhunt-2-ban/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/25/british-high-court-upholds-manhunt-2-ban/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/25/british-high-court-upholds-manhunt-2-ban/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The seemingly never-ending fight to get Manhunt 2 onto British shelves might be coming to an end. As reported by Eurogamer, the Honourable (and aptly named) Judge Justice Mitting said the Video Appeals Committee made "a clear error of law" when they decided 4-3 that Manhunt should be granted a classification by the BBFC.

Rockstar, unsurprisingly, was not happy with the decision, saying in a statement that they "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 British Board of Film Classification's18-plus ratings certification."

The game's chances aren't quite dead yet. The judge gave the VAC two weeks to review their decision with an eye towards "potential harm" rather than just "actual harm," as Eurogamer put it.

For those who might not remember, the game was banned by the BBFC, appealed for by Rockstar, banned again, appealed again (successfully), and then counter-appealed up to the British high court in December.

JoystiqBritish High Court upholds Manhunt 2 ban originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 25 Jan 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BBFCbirtaincontroversyhigh courtHighCourtlawlegalmanhunt-2PS2rockstarVACWiiFri, 25 Jan 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Smash Bros. delay doesn't mean that your wallets are safe]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/15/the-smash-bros-delay-doesnt-mean-that-your-wallets-are-safe/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/15/the-smash-bros-delay-doesnt-mean-that-your-wallets-are-safe/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/15/the-smash-bros-delay-doesnt-mean-that-your-wallets-are-safe/#commentsFiled under:

If the Brawl delay has given you some extra time to kill, you might be in the market for a new Wii game. We'd probably recommend saving your money for some new releases coming up, but if paying less is your cup of tea, Amazon is now offering the following games on sale:


[Via CAG]

JoystiqThe Smash Bros. delay doesn't mean that your wallets are safe originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 15 Jan 2008 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accent-coreamazondragon-bladeguilty-gear-xxguilty-gear-xx-accent-coremanhunt-2off-the-railsrapala-tournament-fishingthrillvillevictorious-boxers-revolutionwrath-of-fireTue, 15 Jan 2008 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[And the Manhunt 2 saga continues]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/17/and-the-manhunt-2-saga-continues/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/17/and-the-manhunt-2-saga-continues/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/17/and-the-manhunt-2-saga-continues/#commentsFiled under:

Although Rockstar won the appeal to get the controversial Manhunt 2 rated in the UK, the battle is far from over. The BBFC is now challenging the verdict by applying for a judicial review of the Video Appeals Committee's decision. The BBFC is adamant about its course of action, stating, "The VAC judgment, if allowed to stand, would have fundamental implications with regard to all the Board's decisions, including those turning upon questions of unacceptable levels of violence." Won't someone think of the children?

The BBFC is also trying to have the VAC's decision suspended, so that the Board doesn't have to rate the game until after the judicial review.

While it seems no one cares about playing Manhunt 2 anymore, the final outcome is certain to have repercussions for rating games (in the UK, at least) in the future.

[Via press release]

JoystiqAnd the Manhunt 2 saga continues originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 17 Dec 2007 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appealbbfccensorcensorshipmanhunt-2manhunt2rockstarMon, 17 Dec 2007 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rockstar fights Manhunt 2 ban in UK, wins (for now)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/10/rockstar-fights-manhunt-2-ban-in-uk-wins-for-now/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/10/rockstar-fights-manhunt-2-ban-in-uk-wins-for-now/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/10/rockstar-fights-manhunt-2-ban-in-uk-wins-for-now/#commentsFiled under:

You may remember that Rockstar appealed the BBFC's decision to refuse to rate Manhunt 2. Well, things seem to be finally going Rockstar's way, for once, as the Video Appeals Committee ruled in favor of the publisher by four votes to three.

So, does this mean that this whole fiasco is over and Manhunt 2 will finally get its 18 rating? Not exactly. The BBFC can still take the case to the High Court in order to try to keep the ban on the game.

Whether you care about Manhunt 2 or not, we've already seen how the decision to ban the title in the UK has affected other games. At least this appeal is a step in the right direction regarding video game censorship.

JoystiqRockstar fights Manhunt 2 ban in UK, wins (for now) originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 10 Dec 2007 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appealbbfccensorcensorshipmanhunt-2manhunt2rockstarMon, 10 Dec 2007 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Manhunt 2 one step closer to British unbanning]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/10/manhunt-2-one-step-closer-to-british-unbanning/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/10/manhunt-2-one-step-closer-to-british-unbanning/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/10/manhunt-2-one-step-closer-to-british-unbanning/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

In America, it was quite the saga getting Manhunt 2 from AO-rated, system-excluded game an eventual, mediocre M-rated release. In Great Britain, though, the battle to get the game released continues to this day, though it is moving in Rockstar's direction.

GamesIndustry.biz is reporting that Rockstar has won its appeal of the BBFC's decision to refuse the game classification by a four to three vote. The game's not out of the woods yet, though -- the BBFC could still continue to defend it decision through further appeal to the High Court. "We won't make a decision until we've seen the full printed judgement," a BBFC spokesperson told GI.biz.

JoystiqManhunt 2 one step closer to British unbanning originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 10 Dec 2007 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AOBBFCcontroversyMmanhuntmanhunt-2manhunt2PS2ratingsrockstarviolenceWiiMon, 10 Dec 2007 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rockstar's British appeal begins for Manhunt 2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/26/rockstars-british-appeal-begins-for-manhunt-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/26/rockstars-british-appeal-begins-for-manhunt-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/26/rockstars-british-appeal-begins-for-manhunt-2/#commentsFiled under: ,


Official proceedings began today for Rockstar's appeal to the British Board of Film Classification, regarding their refusal to rate the Wii version of Manhunt 2, effectively barring the game from release in the UK. GamesIndustry.biz provides coverage of the appeal. Geoffrey Robertson, representing Rockstar Games, opened the proceedings with his statement, claiming that the BBFC are "ignorant of the gaming experience," and might as well be called "the British Board of Videogame Censors."

Robertston further accused the Video Appeals Committee of having never even played video games, to which one panel member reportedly responded that some of them actually had (to which we say: only some of them?). Robertson argued that the BBFC is more concerned with their own image than anything else.

Rockstar has clearly come out with fists flying for the appeal. It remains to be seen if the aggressive strategy will prove effective in allowing the lackluster Manhunt 2 to find its way to British Wii's.

JoystiqRockstar's British appeal begins for Manhunt 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 26 Nov 2007 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bbfcmanhuntmanhunt-2manhunt2politicsrockstarukviolencewiiMon, 26 Nov 2007 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Senators call for ESRB review after Manhunt 2 fiasco]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/21/senators-call-for-esrb-review-after-manhunt-2-fiasco/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/21/senators-call-for-esrb-review-after-manhunt-2-fiasco/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/21/senators-call-for-esrb-review-after-manhunt-2-fiasco/#commentsFiled under:

Will we ever be able to enjoy our violent video games at peace without having to worry about the politicians in Washington screwing it up? Apparently, not as several Senators including Presidential hopeful Hillary Clinton and the anti-gamer Joe Lieberman have signed a letter calling for a review of the ESRB rating system in the wake of the Manhunt 2 fiasco.

A portion of the letter reads, "As you know, in June 2007, the British Board of Film Classification refused to rate Rockstar's Manhunt 2 videogame ... stating that it contains 'unremitting bleakness and callousness of tone. In October 2007, the BBFC again refused to rate a revised Manhunt 2 stating that 'the impact of the revisions on the bleakness and callousness of tone ... is clearly insufficient. [The ESRB, however,] reduced the revised version's rating to "Mature," effectively opening the door to its widespread distribution and its licensing approval by game system manufacturers Sony and Nintendo."

We think it's fair to say the last thing the ESRB needs to be is more strict on the content it reviews. Moreover, It's growing increasingly clear that the video game industry may never reach the societal acceptance that the movie industry enjoys with its violent content.

(Via IGN)

JoystiqSenators call for ESRB review after Manhunt 2 fiasco originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 21 Nov 2007 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>controversymanhunt-2Wed, 21 Nov 2007 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[When Senators attack: Politicians target ESRB and Wii]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/21/when-senators-attack-politicians-target-esrb-and-wii/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/21/when-senators-attack-politicians-target-esrb-and-wii/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/21/when-senators-attack-politicians-target-esrb-and-wii/#commentsFiled under:


Some high-profile U.S. Senators, including Hillary Clinton (D-NY) and Joe Lieberman (ID-CT), have made attacking the ESRB their new pet project. The cause of this controversy is, of course, Manhunt 2. You may recall that Rockstar was forced to revise the game in order to remove the "Adults Only" rating given to it by the ESRB. These tactics may have worked in the U.S., but the British Board of Film Classification was unimpressed and still refused to issue a rating for the title.

The Senators are pretty ticked off at the ESRB for not being as censor vicious as the BBFC. But the ramifications of the Senators' attack on the ESRB go deeper than Manhunt 2, and may affect the video game industry in general if the ESRB is put under the "thorough review" that they are demanding.

Even worse, the Senators are calling for more extreme ratings on the Wii, due to the console's motion-sensitive controller. They argue that the Wiimote "permits children to act out each of the many graphic torture scenes and murders."

Of course, they don't acknowledge the fact that children shouldn't be playing Manhunt 2 at all, since the game was given a "Mature" rating by the ESRB, and one of the few ways they can even play the game is with parental permission. If children playing mature games is really their concern, perhaps the Senators should be putting parents under review, and not the ESRB. Those old enough to play violent games can differentiate between using waggle and using real weapons, making separate Wii ratings unnecessary.

At times like these, we really yearn for Stephen Colbert to make a political comeback.

JoystiqWhen Senators attack: Politicians target ESRB and Wii originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 21 Nov 2007 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BBFCESRBHillary-ClintonJoe-LiebermanManhunt-2Manhunt2PoliticsRockstarTake-TwoWiimoteWed, 21 Nov 2007 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[PSP Fanboy review: Manhunt 2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/09/psp-fanboy-reviews-manhunt-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/09/psp-fanboy-reviews-manhunt-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/09/psp-fanboy-reviews-manhunt-2/#commentsFiled under:


Manhunt 2 has had an interesting development cycle. It's hard to think of another game that has been so steeped in controversy, politics and debate. But while the politicians and TV talking heads can go on and on about violence, corporate responsibility and protecting the children, the people who the game is actually made for (you know, gamers) are much more curious about how Manhunt 2 actually plays.

The game starts off with a massive lightning storm temporarily causing a blackout at a rundown and dingy insane asylum, which rather inconveniently causes all the cell doors to pop open, spewing forth a small army of violent crazy people. Your character, Daniel Lamb, suddenly snaps into consciousness while strangling an old female doctor as your cell door opens. Shocked at what you're doing, you drop her body and stumble out into the hallway in what segues into a mini-tutorial on how to sneak and kill. It also nicely showcases some of the ... questionable aspects of the game, since in the first five minutes you are peed on, spit on, and throw up twice.

Of course, the most controversial part of Manhunt 2 is not the urination -- it's the wide variety of grotesque ways you can kill people. While it is possible to engage enemies in normal hand-to-hand combat, this will almost always mean your death. The way you're 'suppose' to kill someone is by sneaking up behind them with a weapon and performing an execution. If done correctly, you will be treated with a short cutscene of you horribly eviscerating your opponent. Well, at least you'll assume you just eviscerated the perp, since Rockstar edited the cutscenes to appease the ESRB and ended up making them an unintelligible mess of quick cuts, bad camera angles, and blurred effects. Unless you're extremely squeamish, you're not going to be disturbed by the violence of the executions, but the cutscenes may give you epilepsy.

Gallery: Manhunt 2

Continue reading PSP Fanboy review: Manhunt 2

JoystiqPSP Fanboy review: Manhunt 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 09 Nov 2007 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>joystiqfeaturesmanhuntmanhunt-2rockstarFri, 09 Nov 2007 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Target may stop selling Manhunt 2 in stores]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/05/rumor-target-may-stop-selling-manhunt-2-in-stores/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/05/rumor-target-may-stop-selling-manhunt-2-in-stores/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/05/rumor-target-may-stop-selling-manhunt-2-in-stores/#commentsFiled under:

Calling this just a "rumor" is sort of complicating things -- this is complete hearsay and by that we mean unconfirmed prattle. Apparently, a member of the Evil Avatar forums got hold of a memo being passed around Target stores claiming that Manhunt 2 will not be sold in their stores or online. At any branch.

This is getting the push because of the bad press the game has received the last couple of days, member Dr. Finger advocates. Who knows, perhaps its the violence that can be unlocked as well. Either way, this is a complete rumor until a lot of people actually start looking for games in Target. A few sold out stores here or there aren't proof positive. Not yet.

[via GamePolitics]

JoystiqRumor: Target may stop selling Manhunt 2 in stores originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 05 Nov 2007 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>manhunt-2rockstarrumorrumorsMon, 05 Nov 2007 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Manhunt 2 being pulled from Target stores]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/04/rumor-manhunt-2-being-pulled-from-target-stores/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/04/rumor-manhunt-2-being-pulled-from-target-stores/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/04/rumor-manhunt-2-being-pulled-from-target-stores/#commentsFiled under:


This has yet to be confirmed, but some Target insiders are claiming that the retailer will not be selling copies of Manhunt 2, the controversial Rockstar game. The rumor was started by a Target employee at the Evil Avatar forums, and was later supported at GoNintendo by an electronics specialist at the retail chain.

Adding further basis to the rumor, Target's website states that the PSP version of Manhunt 2 is not available in stores, although it can be purchased online. The PS2 and Wii versions are not even listed on the site.

If this rumor turns out to be true, it won't be good news for Rockstar, especially if other retailers follow suit. As of now, though, these rumblings apply to Target stores only.

JoystiqRumor: Manhunt 2 being pulled from Target stores originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 04 Nov 2007 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActionHorrorManhunt-2Manhunt2RockstarStealthTake-twoTargetSun, 04 Nov 2007 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rockstar fails to credit some Manhunt 2 developers]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/03/rockstar-fails-to-credit-some-manhunt-2-developers/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/03/rockstar-fails-to-credit-some-manhunt-2-developers/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/03/rockstar-fails-to-credit-some-manhunt-2-developers/#commentsFiled under:


Amidst all the controversy over Rockstar's latest release, Manhunt 2, comes word that someone else is now upset with the developer. It appears that Rockstar failed to include the staff of more than 50 people at Rockstar Vienna, which worked on the title for nearly two years until it was closed down, and several other people from various other Rockstar teams.

Thankfully, Jurie Horneman, a former Rockstar Vienna producer posted the full list of names on his blog, but he didn't stop there. According to Horneman, the work him and the rest of his team contributed to the game made it into the retail release of the game.

"I am disappointed and outraged that Rockstar Games tries to pretend that Rockstar Vienna and the work we did on Manhunt 2 never happened - the work of over 50 people, who put years of their lives into the project, trying to make the best game they could. I am proud to have been a part of that team," Horneman wrote. While we've been behind Rockstar during the flood of media scrutiny over Manhunt 2 and its past releases, we can't, like Jurie, help feel a bit disappointed that it failed to properly credit the developers who spent so much time creating its new cashcow.

[Via IGN]

JoystiqRockstar fails to credit some Manhunt 2 developers originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 03 Nov 2007 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>controversymanhuntmanhunt-2rockstarSat, 03 Nov 2007 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mental Health Alliance doesn't like Manhunt 2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/03/mental-health-alliance-doesnt-like-manhunt-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/03/mental-health-alliance-doesnt-like-manhunt-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/03/mental-health-alliance-doesnt-like-manhunt-2/#commentsFiled under:


Thankfully, Rockstar won't have to worry about any backlash from the ESRB due to the Manhunt 2 hack, but that doesn't mean it's totally in the clear yet as the National Alliance on Mental Illness condemned the violent title due to its portrayal of people suffering from mental illnesses. NAMI has called on Rockstar to further modify or even recall the game, and if that doesn't happen, for retailers to completely remove it from store shelves.

"Even though some people may consider Manhunt 2 to be only a game, it unfortunately perpetuates and reinforces cruel, inaccurate perceptions that people who live with mental illnesses are violent, NAMI executive director Mike Fitzpatrick stated in a press release. "Concern over the violence reflected in the game up until now has not yet been extended to include the outrageous portrayal of the 54 million people in the United States who live with serious mental illnesses. We do not favor censorship, but we do ask for responsible exercise of creative rights when serious public health concerns are at issue. It is our right to demand a higher standard."

While we can somewhat understand Fitzpatrick's concerns, all forms of media have long perpetuated stereotypes and myths about not only this issue, but a myriad of others, as well. It only takes a few working brain cells to understand that every mentally ill person isn't going to rip your scrotum off, but hey, if you're crazy enough to believe that, you may need to have your head examined.

[Via Kotaku]

JoystiqMental Health Alliance doesn't like Manhunt 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 03 Nov 2007 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>controversyesrbmanhunt-2rockstartake-twoSat, 03 Nov 2007 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[ESRB responds: Manhunt 2 will not receive AO rating due to PSP hack]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/02/esrb-responds-manhunt-2-will-not-receive-ao-rating-due-to-psp-h/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/02/esrb-responds-manhunt-2-will-not-receive-ao-rating-due-to-psp-h/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/02/esrb-responds-manhunt-2-will-not-receive-ao-rating-due-to-psp-h/#commentsFiled under:

The PSP version of Manhunt 2 is vulnerable to a hack that allows the graphic kills of Rockstar's controversial action game to remain intact, unedited. Surely, this will raise the eyebrow of the ESRB, which pulled Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas off of store shelves due to the "Hot Coffee" incident?

No. In an statement released to the press, ESRB president Patricia Vance said: "Manhunt 2's rating makes it unmistakable that the game is intended for an older audience. The unauthorized hacking into the code of this game doesn't change that basic fact. Parents need to be vigilant about monitoring what their children are downloading on the Internet and ensure that they are not making unauthorized and oftentimes illegal modifications to software and hardware that remove the controls the industry has so diligently put in place for their own protection."

The PSP isn't widely known for having the best security around, but it's clear that a bit more effort goes into unlocking the "unedited" version of Manhunt 2 as opposed to the PC version of Grand Theft Auto. "The Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas "Hot Coffee" situation involved a scene that was a) fully rendered in an unmodified form on the disc (the Hot Coffee mod did not alter the content that was there, it merely unlocked it), b) not previously disclosed to the ESRB during the rating process, and c) easily accessible to all owners of the PC version of the game. Conversely, in the case of Manhunt 2, a) content that was programmed to be part of the game (i.e., visual blurring effects of certain violent depictions) is being modified, b) the content was previously disclosed to the ESRB, and c) unauthorized versions of software and/or hardware are required to play the modified content."

JoystiqESRB responds: Manhunt 2 will not receive AO rating due to PSP hack originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 02 Nov 2007 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>esrbmanhuntmanhunt-2Fri, 02 Nov 2007 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[ESRB issues statement about Manhunt 2 hacks and controversy]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/02/esrb-statement-about-manhunt-2-hacks-and-controversy/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/02/esrb-statement-about-manhunt-2-hacks-and-controversy/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/02/esrb-statement-about-manhunt-2-hacks-and-controversy/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


OK, we're just going to come out and say we're getting a whole seven-year itch from all this Manhunt 2 controversy and coverage. We're bored by it. It's a mediocre game and in no way brings the concept of a thrill kill to the Wii. Back in the day when the whole AO rating affair was going on it was sexy, with issues about retail sales keeping things interesting. Now, it just feels like we're being subjected to lame talking heads trying to grab the microphone.

The ESRB recently held an investigation regarding Manhunt 2 and the hack that makes the censored material available -- we've placed the corresponding release and Q&A after the break. ESRB president Patricia Vance makes it clear that unauthorized hacking of the code does not constitute a need to reissue the rating, and that parents should be vigilant of what their kids are downloading from the internet in order to modify or remove "controls the industry has so diligently put in place for their own protection."

Vance better watch her back, parents don't like being told to do their job -- that's how wars with Canada get started.

Continue reading ESRB issues statement about Manhunt 2 hacks and controversy

JoystiqESRB issues statement about Manhunt 2 hacks and controversy originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 02 Nov 2007 17:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>esrbmanhuntmanhunt-2manhunt2PS2PSProckstarstatementWiiFri, 02 Nov 2007 17:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Manhunt 2 credits neglect Vienna team]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/02/manhunt-2-credits-neglect-vienna-team/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/02/manhunt-2-credits-neglect-vienna-team/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/02/manhunt-2-credits-neglect-vienna-team/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Oops, looks like some people didn't get credit where credit was deserved in the sweeping epic of love, lust, loss, betrayal and murder known as Manhunt 2. Former producer Jurie Horneman writes on his blog that the names of 55 people, who worked on the game at Rockstar Vienna before it was closed in May of 2006, are missing from the game's credits. He lists the names as best he can remember, with the exception of one person who did not wish to be named.

Horneman says, "I am disappointed and outraged that Rockstar Games tries to pretend that Rockstar Vienna and the work we did on Manhunt 2 never happened - the work of over 50 people, who put years of their lives into the project, trying to make the best game they could. I am proud to have been a part of that team." Development teams switch up all the time -- it's a wonder we don't hear about stuff like this more often.

[Via Develop]

JoystiqManhunt 2 credits neglect Vienna team originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 02 Nov 2007 12:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>creditmanhuntmanhunt-2manhunt2PS2rockstarviennaWiiFri, 02 Nov 2007 12:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Take-Two acknowledges Manhunt 2 hack]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/01/take-two-acknowledges-manhunt-2-hack/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/01/take-two-acknowledges-manhunt-2-hack/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/01/take-two-acknowledges-manhunt-2-hack/#commentsFiled under: , ,

After word spread throughout the internet of gamers hacking the M-rated version of Manhunt 2 to unlock its censored content, Take-Two has now confirmed the diabolical deed.

"Multiple edits were made to revise Manhunt 2 for its M-rated version. Hackers apparently have altered one of those edits to produce an illegally modified version of the game that can only be played on an unauthorized, modified PlayStation Portable handheld system," a Take-Two rep wrote to GamePolitics.com. "All of the game material, and especially these specific edits, was submitted to and reviewed by the ESRB in accordance with requirements regarding disclosure that were enacted two years ago and any contrary suggestion is inaccurate and irresponsible."

Because the ESRB approved Rockstar's edits of the game, it will probably be safe from any actual lawsuits, but that probably won't stop some uneducated media members from blowing it out of proportion. We just can't wait to hear from dear ol' Jack.

JoystiqTake-Two acknowledges Manhunt 2 hack originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 01 Nov 2007 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hackmanhuntmanhunt-2modmodifyrockstarThu, 01 Nov 2007 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Manhunt 2 retail vs. uncensored: a video comparison]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/01/manhunt-2-retail-vs-uncensored-a-video-comparison/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/01/manhunt-2-retail-vs-uncensored-a-video-comparison/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/01/manhunt-2-retail-vs-uncensored-a-video-comparison/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

If you're interested in seeing some of the ways Rockstar bypassed that sales-killing (sorry, bad pun) AO-rating to get Manhunt 2 on US retail shelves this week, Game Videos has created a short montage of footage contrasting specific scenes of violence found in Manhunt, Manhunt 2 retail, and the uncensored Manhunt 2 beta.

Two points are made from what we see in the video:
  • The original Manhunt can be just as gory at times as the uncut version Manhunt 2
  • The best way to lower your game's ESRB rating is to use crazy filter effects during acts of gratuitous violence
We'd really like to see this video expanded in the future to give a more complete visual comparison of the three versions. For a game poised to be the next hotbed of controversy, surely there's more than 90 seconds of violent similarities to be found amongst the titles.

JoystiqManhunt 2 retail vs. uncensored: a video comparison originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 01 Nov 2007 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>manhuntmanhunt-2manhunt2PS2PSProckstartake-twoWiiThu, 01 Nov 2007 13:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Censored Manhunt 2 content sprung]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/31/censored-manhunt-2-content-sprung/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/31/censored-manhunt-2-content-sprung/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/31/censored-manhunt-2-content-sprung/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

hot pliers
Wanna play Manhunt 2 the ways it's supposed to be played? Simple, just delete the "replace original file" scripts in the game code. A group of hackers allege to have done just that, altering the PSP game file and 'unlocking' the otherwise filtered gore. It's not quite on the scale of Hot Coffee -- remember kids, explicit sex is much worse than gratuitous violence -- but this latest scandal (call it "Hot Pliers") could become just as overblown, despite the hack being currently limited to the portable version of Manhunt and requiring a homebrew-enabled PSP, along with some basic ISO manipulation. Quick! Hide your PSPs before the grownups burn them!

[Via PSP Fanboy]

JoystiqCensored Manhunt 2 content sprung originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 31 Oct 2007 17:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hot-coffeehot-pliersmanhunt-2Manhunt2PSProckstarWed, 31 Oct 2007 17:15:00 EST<![CDATA[From AO to M: the changes of Manhunt 2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/29/from-ao-to-m-the-changes-of-manhunt-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/29/from-ao-to-m-the-changes-of-manhunt-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/29/from-ao-to-m-the-changes-of-manhunt-2/#commentsFiled under:


You've seen the footage: the edited Manhunt 2 features toned-down kill sequences. Yes, they're still violent, but they had to be distorted in order to lessen the visceral impact. In spite of the changes, we think Rockstar did a fantastic job of still conveying the sadistic nature of a serial killer.

But that's not the only thing that's changed about Manhunt 2. A scoring system, which rewarded players for performing the most difficult (and most extreme) kills, has been removed. In an interview with MTV, developer Jeronimo Barrera noted that: "The scoring was a hold-over from the first game, and when we had the opportunity to make edits because of the rating, we decided to remove it ... We felt it flowed better without a score screen between levels."

With the game's release firmly set for launch this week, the developers are glad that people will finally have a chance to play their game. They certainly couldn't have anticipated the amount of controversy the game would receive: "There are conversations to be had about this game - intelligent conversations," he said. "That's what we want to do: get people interested in those [things], rather than ban this game because of X, Y and Z."

JoystiqFrom AO to M: the changes of Manhunt 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 29 Oct 2007 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>manhuntmanhunt-2rockstarMon, 29 Oct 2007 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Worldwide PSP releases for the week of October 28]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/28/worldwide-psp-releases-for-the-week-of-oct-28/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/28/worldwide-psp-releases-for-the-week-of-oct-28/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/28/worldwide-psp-releases-for-the-week-of-oct-28/#commentsFiled under:

This week's big releases are the uber violent and highly criticized Manhunt 2 and finally Nippon Ichi's Disgaea: Afternoon of Darkness. Unfortunately for our European and Asian brothers, there's not much in the way of new software this week.

US Games

EU Games
 Asia Games
  • No new releases
While there isn't a lot to go around in any region, don't be sad because Silent Hill Origins and Metal Gear Solid: Portable Ops + will hit in a few weeks.

JoystiqWorldwide PSP releases for the week of October 28 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 28 Oct 2007 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>disgaeamanhunt-2narutonew-releasesportable-opsreleasesSun, 28 Oct 2007 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Manhunt 2 is scary-looking]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/26/manhunt-2-is-scary-looking/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/26/manhunt-2-is-scary-looking/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/26/manhunt-2-is-scary-looking/#commentsFiled under: ,


Just in case you haven't seen or heard anything about Manhunt 2, or you are terrible at making inferences or something, this new trailer for the game contains violent content and is best suited for adults. If you watch it, and you're surprised and appalled by gruesome imagery, we can't feel too bad, because you were warned! If you're surprised and appalled by gruesome jaggies-- well, that, we totally sympathize with. We've posted the trailer after the break for obvious reasons. We've posted the Manhunt 2 Wii up at the top instead, just because we like it.

In other Manhunt 2 news, this Aeropause post brings up an interesting loophole that Rockstar could use to sell Manhunt 2 in the UK. While the BBFC banned the game from being sold in stores, the ban apparently doesn't include games sold in not-stores. It covers physical media only. Therefore, if Manhunt 2 were to be released as a download, it could be sold even in its unexpurgated form! That's a neat idea, but we doubt Rockstar will take advantage of it. Especially since the Wii's storage space is so limited (and the PS2's hard drive is in so few households.)

Continue reading Manhunt 2 is scary-looking

JoystiqManhunt 2 is scary-looking originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 26 Oct 2007 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bbfcmanhunt-2manhunt2rockstartrailerFri, 26 Oct 2007 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Manhunt 2 + pen = murder]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/26/manhunt-2-pen-murder/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/26/manhunt-2-pen-murder/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/26/manhunt-2-pen-murder/#commentsFiled under:

Ah, so that's why it was banned ...

Rockstar's Manhunt 2, although edited, looks quite gruesome. Although the violence is covered by the dramatic use of visual filters, it still maintains the visceral feel that many (if not most) so-called-violent games are missing. Taking a cue from The Bourne Identity, we see our favorite anti-hero kill a man with a pen -- but for reasons unknown. Check out IGN for more brutality.

JoystiqManhunt 2 + pen = murder originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 26 Oct 2007 10:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>manhuntmanhunt-2Fri, 26 Oct 2007 10:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Manhunt 2 release impending, trailer on display]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/25/manhunt-2-release-impending-trailer-on-display/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/25/manhunt-2-release-impending-trailer-on-display/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/25/manhunt-2-release-impending-trailer-on-display/#commentsFiled under:

Holy s***!

There sure are a lot of masked gang members, strippers, dirty cops, and more in this launch trailer for Manhunt 2. This Wii, PSP and PS2 game garnered a lot of attention when it earned the much-hated AO (Adults Only) rating from the ESRB, and was effectively banned. It's been edited -- but it still looks like a pretty dirty romp to us. This trailer looks absolutely horrible ... and we love it.

Stay tuned for our hands-on impressions.

JoystiqManhunt 2 release impending, trailer on display originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 25 Oct 2007 11:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>manhuntmanhunt-2rockstarThu, 25 Oct 2007 11:25:00 EST