ELSPA "surprised" by language BBFC used to explain Manhunt 2 ban

ELSPA director general Paul Jackson has revealed the organisation plans to contact the BBFC over the language used to announce the ban of Manhunt 2.

"What I think we've been incredibly responsible in doing is making sure there are checks and balances in place so we're working responsibly... We support the age rating system that operates in this country," he told GamesIndustry.biz this morning.

"I would say that I was surprised at some of the language the BBFC used when they reported on the matter, but we'll be talking to them about that separately."

Manhunt 2 is effectively banned from sale in the UK after the British Board of Film Classification refused to grant the game a rating. In a statement issued yesterday, BBFC director David Cooke said that Manhunt 2 featured an "unremitting bleakness and callousness of tone" along with "sustained and cumulative casual sadism". He concluded that allowing the game to go on sale "would involve a range of unjustifiable harm risks, to both adults and minors".

Jackson today reiterated his support for the BBFC's decision, telling GI.biz, "With any truly cultural industry, the creativity within that industry will always push the boundaries. It's what creative people do, and that's excellent.

"But I think it's right that as a responsible industry we support the structures that are in place."

It's not yet known whether Manhunt 2 publisher Rockstar will appeal against the BBFC's decision. The game is still set to go on sale in the US, where it has been issued with a preliminary 'Adults Only' rating.