Earlier in the month, we brought you word that Sega's upcoming shooter Aliens vs. Predator found itself an unfortunate victim of the government of Australia. Specifically, that nation's ratings board and censorship ministers (an actual job title) decided that the game was too graphic in its depictions of violence, and therefore would not be rated, and thus could not be released there. This prompted a quick response from Rebellion, the game's developer, which basically boils down to, "Oh well. Fuck Australia.", and that the game would not be edited for that market. However, a story on GamePolitics this morning seems to hint that AvP may get one more chance, as the ratings board has announced that it will re-review the game on Friday.

A press release issued by Australia's Classification Review Board stated that, in response to Sega's appeal request, that body would take another look at Aliens vs. Predator to determine if it can receive the MA 15+ rating, which is the highest level a game can get. The board is also asking for public input on the rating, stating:

If an individual or organisation wishes to apply for standing as an interested party to this review, please write to the Convenor of the Review Board. The closing date to lodge your application for standing as an interested party and any submissions is Monday 14 December 2009.

Please note that the Review Board can only consider submissions about the computer game Aliens vs Predator itself and not any other matters relating to computer games policy or issues generally.

Personally, I have a feeling that the censors down under will live to regret publishing the appeal email address online. Chances are that inbox will be flooded with obscene and horrific name calling well-reasoned insight as to why the game should be released in Aussieland. Since Rebellion hasn't made any changes to the game, and, in fact, refuses to do so, there seems to be little chance that the appeal review will have the desired affect of getting the game to the world's largest island nation, but I guess we'll all find out shortly. If you'd like to let the board know how you feel about it, drop them a line at crb@classification.gov.au. I'm sure they'd love to hear from you!