Take-Two shelves Manhunt 2

Following bans on the sale of the game in the UK and Ireland, as well as a preliminary Adults Only rating in the US, Take-Two Interactive has temporarily shelved Manhunt 2, GamesIndustry.biz reports.

"Take-Two Interactive Software has temporarily suspended plans to distribute Manhunt 2 for the Wii or PlayStation platforms while it reviews its options with regard to the recent decisions made by the BBFC and ESRB," the publisher said in a written statement.

"We continue to stand behind this extraordinary game. We believe in freedom of creative expression, as well as responsible marketing, both of which are essential to our business of making great entertainment."

Manhunt 2 was originally scheduled for a 10th July release on the PlayStation 2, PSP, and Nintendo Wii. However, Sony and Nintendo corporate policies forbid third-parties from releasing AO-rated titles for their systems. On Wednesday, Take-Two confirmed that the game had indeed received an Adults Only rating from the ESRB.

The game has already been banned in the UK and Ireland.

Take-Two has not yet announced whether its intention is to appeal the rating, rework the game and resubmit it to the ESRB for a new rating determination, or to shelve the game indefinitely.