Update: Since posting this story, Atari has made it clear it has no comment regarding the reasons for the ban. As such, I've contacted the OFLC for additional information.

One June 20, Rebellion's Shellshock 2 was refused classification in Australia. When we asked Eidos' distributor Atari if there were plans to edit the game and try for an MA 15+ rating, it replied in the negative.

We know the OFLC has a thing against excessive blood, decapitation and dismemberment, so I assumed it was one (or a combination) of these elements that earned Shellshock 2 an RC. Atari did provide a comment, but has since retracted the statement.

Eidos' Shellshock 2: Blood Trails has become another casualty in the fight for an R18+ rating for games in Australia. On June 20, it was handed a Refused Classification by the OFLC, banning its sale in the country.

For the Shellshock series, it is a case of history repeating. Back in 2004, Shellshock: Nam '67 was also given an RC, however, it was later resubmitted and managed an MA 15+.

Today I contacted Atari, which publishes Eidos games in Australia, to find out if it plans to take a similar course with Shellshock 2. The answer was no, which means like Digital Extremes' Dark Sector, it's doubtful we'll see it in stores ever.

I'm following up with Atari to find out exactly what the OFLC drew issue with.

Shellshock 2: Blood Trails [OFLC, via PALGN]