Retail sources have told IGN that the Mortal Kombat reboot has been refused classification by the Australian Classification Board. Unfortunately, without a rating the game cannot be sold in the country. The anonymous sources also received an email asking them to remove all signage and promotion related to the game.
“The highly anticipated video game Mortal Kombat, published by Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment (WBIE) in Australia, has been refused classification by the Australian Classification Board and will not release in Australia. We are extremely disappointed that Mortal Kombat, one of the world's oldest and most successful video games franchises, will not be available to mature Australian gamers,” said a statement from Warner Bros Interactive Entertainment.
“WBIE would not market mature content where it is not appropriate for the audience. We understand that not all content is for every audience, but there is an audience for mature gaming content and it would make more sense to have the R18+ classification in Australia. As a member of the iGEA, WBIE is reviewing all options available at this time.”
The ruling on the addition of an R18+ rating was postponed in mid-December of 2010, with no alternate date given for the ruling yet.
