Halloween: The Game Will Actually Be Available in New Zealand After All

The video game Halloween: The Game was initially refused classification in Australia, preventing its availability in both Australia and New Zealand. However, IllFonic, the game's developer, has now announced that the game will indeed be available in New Zealand in a digital format. The developers explained that the Australian Classification Board's rating, which is used for physical copies, takes precedence over the IARC rating used for digital releases.

While Australia's ACB refused classification to the game due to illicit drug use that provides a gameplay advantage, New Zealand's classification system does not automatically mirror Australian decisions. New Zealand's classification system only requires physical games to be submitted for local classification if they are likely to receive an age-restricted rating, have already received such a rating, or have been refused classification or banned in Australia or the UK.

Consequently, Halloween: The Game can be sold digitally in New Zealand without needing a local classification.