Slow moving legislation has once again denied Australian Mortal Kombat fans their chance for a retail release of the popular fighter, outgoing classification standards allowed to claim one more title ahead of completed reform in 2013.

Consistent with February 2011 rulings [original story]; the newly arriving PlayStation Vita version of Mortal Kombat has been Refused Classification, effectively rendering the product illegal for sale or import into the country.

Gamespot AU report Warner Brothers felt the portable handheld system may lower the perceivable "impact" of violence that saw the original title rated beyond Australia's MA15+ classification. An unedited version of the Vita game was reportedly submitted, without accompaniment of the recently released Komplete Edition for consoles. Games currently Refused Classification are expected to remain banned, even once the adult R18+ thresholds are introduced, at least until they are resubmitted by a parent company.

Despite customs scrutiny and threat of severe fines [full story], the originally banned title was anecdotally reported to have been widely imported by dedicated and savvy fans. Video game importing has become a major issue for Australian retailers, popular banned titles placing additional pressure on a market already grappling with a strong Australian dollar, and the imbalance of expensive retail costs, versus private imports not subject to GST (Goods and Services Tax). It remains to be seen if Mortal Kombat will be resubmitted by WB in 2013, once the adult ratings take effect.

Mortal Kombat for the PlayStation Vita packs various exclusive features on top of the Komplete Edition of the game, including new costumes and interactive features, such as touchscreen fatalities! The game is set to hit worldwide in April [full details].