While the sensors the are refusing to certify Rockstar's Manhunt 2 for release, despite the ESRB recently passing the game as "M" stateside, it now transpires (according to The Register) that the game could be released as a digital download - thanks to a loophole in certification laws.

The 1984 Video Recordings Act only covers physical products, such as a video or DVD, meaning that digital content does not require certification to be released in the same way. While had modified Manhunt 2 in the hope that the game might be passed fit for release, the BBFC were not satisfied that Rockstar's cuts had gone far enough.

Whether a digital download could make it onto the Wii, and in reality remains very much open to question, however, even if such a move would be legally possible. Beyond the technical problems, it seems unlikely platform holders would be willing to risk bad press be dodging laws in such as fashion.

Still, it's interesting to note the flaky nature of the legislation.

By Luke Guttridge