Halloween: The Game will get a digital release in New Zealand after all

IllFonic's horror game Halloween: The Game will receive a digital release in New Zealand, despite initially facing a classification refusal. Earlier this month, the Australian Classification Board denied the game a rating due to a control substance mechanic, believed to be related to cannabis. IllFonic admitted that the decision would prevent them from selling both the physical and digital versions in Australia and New Zealand.

However, new information emerged explaining the situation. The Australian ratings body, the Australian Classification Board (ACB), holds precedence over the International Arcade and Recreation Classification (IARC) for digital releases. Consequently, the Australian refusal only impacts the physical release across both Australia and New Zealand, while New Zealand's digital classification operates under a separate system.

New Zealand's Office of Film and Literature Classification confirmed that the game had not been submitted for classification and that no local ruling prevents its release in the country. Digital-only releases can be legally sold in New Zealand without classification, although some platforms may opt to seek one. Although Australia remains blocked for both physical and digital sales unless IllFonic resubmits or modifies the game, New Zealand players will be able to purchase Halloween: The Game digitally on its release date of September 8th, alongside PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC.

Physical copies will follow on October 6th in other regions. IllFonic describes its take on Halloween as an accurate recreation of the atmosphere from the 1978 movie, featuring multiple maps set in authentic Haddonfield locations and a soundtrack inspired by John Carpenter's classic score. The game includes the familiar asymmetrical multiplayer mode, accompanied by an offline single-player story mode with bots.