The Controversial History of Gaming’s Most Violent Franchise

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The never-ending violence in video games discussion has revolved around a select few experiences. Mortal Kombat, Carmeggedon, and Grand Theft Auto count among the most infamous. So, too, does the murder-filled Rockstar Games staple, Manhunt.

Released in 2003 on the PlayStation 2, and then on PC and Xbox in 2004, the first Manhunt captivated players with its premise of a former death row inmate who’s coerced into killing at the behest of a mystifying figure. Obscene violence steeped in dizzying levels of gore made for what some consider a murder simulator. Yet, others, especially in retrospect, perceive a semblance of depth that’s long gone unappreciated.

Everything that intrigued gamers and countless critics about it didn’t go over well in other circles, however. Controversy enveloped Manhunt soon after its arrival, manifested in the outcries of parent-led organizations, the violent video game-banning efforts of many politicians, and the discourse surrounding the psychological effects of such games.

Arguably, the contempt that plagued Manhunt harkened back to that which was leveled at horror films throughout the 1980s. It even became embroiled in rumors and conjecture regarding a murder investigation. Despite the tumultuous drama, which inevitably led to Manhunt being banned in a number of countries, Rockstar managed to secure approval for a sequel. Unsurprisingly, the mere announcement of Manhunt 2 spawned a fair helping of controversy. And, still, both adventures went on to become beloved cult classics.

This is the history of Manhunt.

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