Halloween: The Game to Launch Digitally in New Zealand

Despite being initially grouped with Australia's classification refusal, Halloween: The Game will indeed receive a digital release in New Zealand.

Earlier this month, the Australian Classification Board denied the asymmetric horror game developed by IllFonic a rating due to the inclusion of a controlled substance, reportedly a cannabis mechanic for the game's civilian elements. At the time, IllFonic stated this decision would prevent the sale of both physical and digital versions in Australia and New Zealand. However, this has proven to be not entirely accurate.

IllFonic clarified that the confusion stemmed from the differing ratings bodies applicable to each territory. The studio explained that when partnering with physical distributors for Australia and New Zealand, they discovered the Australian Classification Board (ACB) rating, used for physical releases, took precedence over the International Age Rating Coalition (IARC) rating, which applies to digital releases. Consequently, the Australian refusal only impacts the physical release across both regions and does not affect New Zealand's independent digital classification system.

New Zealand's Office of Film and Literature Classification confirmed this, stating that the game was never submitted for classification in New Zealand and that no local ruling prohibits its release there. Digital-only titles can be legally sold in New Zealand without classification, although some platforms opt to seek one voluntarily.

While Australia remains blocked from 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 September 8th. The game will launch simultaneously on PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC. The physical edition will be released elsewhere on October 6th.

IllFonic believes its rendition of Halloween "masterfully recreates" the atmosphere of the iconic 1978 film. The game will feature multiple maps set in "authentic" Haddonfield locations, with a soundtrack inspired by John Carpenter's classic score. Notably, the familiar asymmetrical multiplayer mode will be complemented by an offline single-player story mode featuring AI-controlled bots.