Controversial video game Manhunt 2 has been given the green light for retail sale in the US.

A modified version of the game was given an updated 'Mature' rating by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) from an 'Adults Only' rating in June.

Plans to release the game had been suspended after the ESRB issued the adult rating, which would have barred the game from sale on the Wii, Xbox and PlayStation consoles, as well as at most major US retailers.

The game also received a ban in the UK, becoming the first title to earn such a dubious distinction in 10 years. That ban is currently under appeal.

Rockstar Games, the studio which produced Manhunt 2 and the Grand Theft Auto series, now plans to release the game in the US on Halloween.

"Manhunt 2 is important to us, and we are glad that it can finally be appreciated as a gaming experience," said Rockstar Games founder and executive producer Sam Houser. "We think horror fans will love it."