[Matt]

Game axed over ultra sadism

AN ULTRA-violent computer game based on a murder spree has been banned from shops.

Manhunt 2 was rejected by the British Board of Film Classification because of its “casual sadism”.

A spokesman said: “It constantly encourages visceral killing” with “unrelenting focus on stalking and brutal slaying”.

The game involves a psychiatric patient who goes on a killing rampage. It is the first time since 1997 that a violent video game has been banned.

The parents of tragic 14-year-old Stefan Pakeerah believe the first Manhunt game inspired killer Warren LeBlanc, 17, to stab their son to death.

Stefan’s mum Giselle said: “I am absolutely elated at this decision. Manhunt represents a genre of games that are not fit for public consumption. The imagery they depict is of human suffering and violence. It is brutality for brutality’s sake.”

David Cooke, director of the BBFC, said: “There is sustained and cumulative casual sadism in the way in which these killings are committed, and encouraged, in the game.”

Manhunt 2 never reached shops, and the BBFC ruling means it cannot be released in its current form.

Manufacturers Rockstar Games have six weeks to appeal.

Despite the ban, copies of Manhunt 2 were last night up for sale at £27.99 on the eBay auction website.

Although illegal to supply the game in the UK, it will not be illegal to possess it, meaning gamers can buy it abroad or via an overseas website.

From The Sun