The latest instalment of a popular video game franchise has been banned in Australia, with censors citing a scene in which a female monster sexually assaults the player's character during a "ritualistic" sex scene.

The horror game Outlast II has been refused classification by the Classification Board, meaning it cannot be legally sold in Australia.

A screenshot from the first instalment of the game.

The sequel to a popular 2013 bestseller, the game – which is due for worldwide release next month – revolves around a husband and wife investigative journalism duo who get caught up with a doomsday cult.

The board has refused the game on the basis that it depicts sexual violence.