IllFonic's upcoming title, Halloween: The Game, will not be legally available for purchase in Australia and New Zealand. The Australian Classification Board has denied the game a rating, a decision confirmed by the developer on social media. Contrary to what might be expected from a game based on the iconic slasher film series, the denial is not due to the presence of Michael Myers or the game's graphic kills.
Instead, the reason cited for the refusal is the "presence of a controlled substance" within the game. This ruling means that neither the physical nor digital versions of Halloween: The Game can be sold in the affected regions. The game is scheduled to launch worldwide on September 8 for PC and consoles, with the exception of Australia and New Zealand.
Australia has a history of refusing classification for video games, with numerous titles, including Hotline Miami, Saints Row 4, and South Park: The Stick of Truth, having run afoul of the Australian Classification Board's guidelines. While extreme violence has led to bans for some games in the past, recent refusals have frequently cited drug use or sexual activity with characters appearing to be minors.
Halloween: The Game aims to immerse players in the classic 1978 slasher movie. Players can choose to embody the masked killer Michael Myers or take on the role of the citizens of Haddonfield attempting to survive the night against his relentless pursuit.