GamePolitics is reporting that Take-Two, publisher of Rockstar's controversial Manhunt 2 (which was rejected by the UK's BBFC today) has confirmed that the game has received the retail kiss-of-death from the ESRB: an Adults Only rating. What does this mean for Take-Two? An AO rating ensures the title will not be carried in many mainstream family-friendly retail establishments (think Wal-Mart), reducing possible sales and making the path to profitability even more burdensome.

Take-Two can appeal the decision and dispute the AO rating, but something tells us this game has become a line in the sand that ratings boards, eager to prove their efficacy, won't cross. The ESRB's website hasn't been updated with the new rating just yet. More on this story is (surely) forthcoming.

Update: MTV News spoke with a representative for Rockstar who, when asked if the AO rating would result in a delay, replied, "That's the last thing we want, but it's too early to say."

Via Joystiq

So what do you guys think?

funny

However, if there is a lot of talk on forums and there is a lot of publicity on the matter then they are almost guaranteed sales. Basically, if you want the game- your going to get it; just because its slightly harder (harder to buy) than before does not mean your not going to purchase it.

Perhaps the best publicity tactic ever

I feel the same way. If there's a game out and I want it bad enough, I'll find a way to get it. Besides, EB is virtually everywhere so the masses can still get what they want without walmart.

Then theres:
ebay, amazon and other countless online retailers- and ordering the game from the manufacturer. Then teenagers can attempt to get adults or older friends to purchase the game...the ways of obtaining it are countless.

Yea theres many wayt to get the game regardless of rating and such. But i think the so called contreversy is overdone.

This is some crazy stuff. I'd get the game regardless. I wonder what Jack Thompson has to say about this game.

At least he wont be complaining on kids playing it.
Yea i kinda made a post on this in the Manhunt topic, but yours is more detailed.
What company is publishing it? Sony? Microsoft?

rockstar. everyone knows that.

Sorry, i meant what console is going to be made for?

I bet its either PS3 or PC.

Both Sony and Nintendo said Ao games are currently not allowed to be played on their systems, so thats quite limiting if you ask me.

ill gt this game easily, just tell a random passer by to get me one and give him a fiver or whateva.