Rockstar has issued a statement following the discovery of a way to reveal some of the original unedited content in Manhunt 2. They confirm the hack is indeed real (as we found out yesterday) but also explain that the respective edit was only one of the “many” changes made to the M-rated version of Manhunt 2.

Multiple edits were made to revise Manhunt 2 for its M-rated version.

Hackers apparently have altered one of those edits to produce an illegally modified version of the game that can only be played on an unauthorized, modified PlayStation Portable handheld system.

All of the game material, and especially these specific edits, was submitted to and reviewed by the ESRB in accordance with requirements regarding disclosure that were enacted two years ago and any contrary suggestion is inaccurate and irresponsible.

Take-Two Chairman Strauss Zelnick said, “I stand behind the game and the ESRB ratings process. It is unfortunately the case that no one in the entertainment software industry is immune from hacking. We hope that consumers will not engage in hacking or download illegally modified copies of our games. We encourage them to enjoy our games as they are meant to be played. We would also like to emphasize that Manhunt 2 is intended for an audience aged 17 and above.”

I still believe Rockstar is in the clear here, seeing as taking advantage of the hack requires a modified PSP. Though, who knows how far the mainstream media will blow this out of proportion.

BREAKING: Rockstar Confirms Manhunt 2 PSP Hack [GP]

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