Following the ban in the US and UK, Rockstar has announced it has officially suspended the release of its controversial game Manhunt 2 while it re-evaluates its options.

A statement from parent company Take-Two said: "Take 2 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.

“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.”

Take 2 chairman Strauss Zelnick added: “We firmly believe that parents and consumers, once informed as to the nature of any entertainment product, should be able to make their own choices.

“I have reviewed Manhunt 2 myself. It fits squarely within the horror genre and was intended to do so. It brings a unique, formerly unheard-of cinematic quality to interactive entertainment. It is also a fine piece of art. I stand behind it fully.”

During Rockstar's re-evaluation process, industry rumours suggest the firm may decide to re-work the title to appease the concerns raised by regulators.