Developer IllFonic says the refusal stems from a controlled substance in the game
IllFonic's asymmetric horror title Halloween: The Game has been refused classification by the Australian Classifications Board, barring its sale in both Australia and New Zealand.
The developer confirmed the decision on X/Twitter, stating the refusal "was not based on the presence of the iconic slasher, Michael Myers, or the outstanding kills that can be performed in the game, but rather the presence of a controlled substance."
"Despite every effort on our part, the Australian Classification Board has denied Halloween: The Game a rating," the studio confirmed in response to a player.
"Unfortunately, to our disappointment (and certainly yours) this means that we cannot sell the physical or digital product in both Australia and New Zealand."
Multiple reports suggest the substance in question is cannabis, use of which reportedly grants players controlling Michael Myers a gameplay buff. IllFonic has not confirmed this detail directly, and the refusal has yet to appear on the Classification Board's public register.
It's not yet clear whether IllFonic plans to alter the game for the Australian and New Zealand markets, or whether the ban will affect its September launch elsewhere.
Australia's classification board has a history of refusing game ratings over depictions of illicit drugs and some depictions of violence. For instance, Hunter x Hunter Nen x Impact was refused classification by the ACB in 2024 due to "implied sexual violence," and in 2021, Disco Elysium: A Final Cut was released on consoles in Australia after an initial ban.
