Australia Bans 'Halloween: The Game' Over Drug Use, Not Violence
The Australian Classification Board cited incentivized marijuana use as the reason for prohibiting the slasher game, despite its graphic content.
The videogame "Halloween: The Game," based on the popular horror franchise, has been banned in Australia, not for its violent content or depictions of teen sex, but due to its inclusion of "incentivized" marijuana use.
The Australian Classification Board stated that the game was prohibited because it features illicit drug use linked to a reward, granting players gameplay advantages. Recreational marijuana is illegal in Australia.
In the game, players consuming marijuana regain health and can locate the killer, Michael Myers, on the map. Players controlling Myers engage in graphic killings, mirroring the slasher film's style. The game had previously removed a controversial sex minigame involving an adult character and teenagers after public outcry.
Despite the game's violent and mature themes, the ban has sparked backlash among Australian gamers. Over 500 complaints were filed with the Classification Board regarding the decision. Critics have pointed out the inconsistency, noting the prevalence of gambling advertisements on television while a video game depicting drug use faces prohibition. Some also highlighted that medical cannabis is legal in Australia, questioning the ban's reasoning.
Former director of the Classification Board, Margaret Anderson, criticized the decision, stating that the classification system in Australia is not appropriate for adults in 2026. Representatives for the game's developer, IllFonic, did not immediately respond to requests for comment.