Common Sense Media Review
Incredibly gruesome -- not for kids of any age.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 18+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Play
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 18 parent reviews
Parents say that this video game is extremely violent and disturbing, often with reviews emphasizing its graphic content and potential negative influence on children. While some adult players appreciate the intense atmosphere and gameplay, the consensus warns that only mature audiences should engage with it, as it features sadistic violence and themes unsuitable for younger players.
- violent content
- not for children
- adult players only
- disturbing themes
- graphic gameplay
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
Based on 31 kid reviews
Kids say they find this game disturbing yet intriguing, noting its graphic violence and dark themes as appealing for older teens rather than younger audiences. Many reviewers argue that its portrayal of violence serves a purpose in reflecting societal issues rather than glorifying them, suggesting it is appropriate for players who can distinguish between fiction and reality, while expressing frustration towards parents who overlook age ratings.
- psychological horror
- violent themes
- age appropriateness
- controversial perceptions
- parental guidance
Summarized with AI
What's It About?
As the star of MANHUNT you are James Earl Cash, a criminal who is on death row. Following your supposed execution, you wake up to find you have been \"rescued\" by the \"director.\" The director's goal is simple: He wants to tape you assassinating men he has hired to hunt you down and kill you. You are beaten and abused by the director's men, then thrust out into a world of thugs, gangsters and psychotic killers who make every effort to hunt you down.
Is It Any Good?
Words cannot really be used to describe Manhunt -- however, a few that come to mind are disturbing, sick, and scary. Not much else can be said for a game of which the entire focus is having the player assassinate people in the most gruesome way possible, all for the delight of a "director" who is taping your every move. If for any reason we needed to train kids to be expert killers, Manhunt could be the textbook.
Every aspect of a gruesome death is covered in slow-motion detail. The director is not happy with a simple death; instead you need to make the assassination bloodier, more cunning and more horrific to get the director's praise. Manhunt should make hardened criminals queasy, much less your kids. Keep your kids away from this one.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about why a game like this might be made. What is the appeal? Why do you think people like to play games that are so violent? Are violent games always bad for people, or can they be a safe fantasy?
Game Details
- Platform : PlayStation 2
- Pricing structure :
- Available online? : Not available online
- Publisher : Rockstar Games
- Release date : January 4, 2004
- Genre : Action/Adventure
- ESRB rating :
- Last updated : February 15, 2026
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