ESRB Defends Manhunt 2 PSP
Following word that uncensored content can be viewed in Manhunt 2 for PSP, ESRB investigated the situation and has issued a response, defending the game’s “M” rating. “We do not believe these modifications fully restore the product to the version that originally received an AO rating, nor is this a matter of unlocking content,” they said. “Our investigation indicates that the game’s publisher disclosed to the ESRB all pertinent content in the authorized Mature-rated version of Manhunt 2 now available in stores, and complied with our guidelines on full disclosure of content.”
They also distinguish this situation against the San Andreas “Hot Coffee” scandal, stating that Rockstar had knowingly included the Hot Coffee content in the game and had not disclosed it to ESRB, whereas the content in Manhunt 2 was disclosed and modified via censor blurring to get the “M” rating.
ESRB president Patricia Vance added that even without being an “AO” game, Manhunt 2 is still clearly aimed at adults. “Manhunt 2’s rating makes it unmistakable that the game is intended for an older audience,” she said. “The unauthorized hacking into the code of this game doesn’t change that basic fact.”