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11Mar 09

I remember a couple years ago when MadWorld was first announced. I didn't know what to expect from its monochromatic screenshots, odd story, and action-based gameplay, something like a slightly altered No More Heroes idea. But as time slowly moved forward, my eyes began to open to its interesting control setup, clever level design, and hilarious commentary. From maybe early 2008 to March 11, 2009, I eagerly awaited MadWorld.

So the time has come. MadWorld has hit stores and I was able to pick it up. As I began the game, I was captivated by the gratuitous red that filled the world as protagonist Jack threw enemies into spiked walls, exploding barrels, and rocket-propelled subway trains. The content is ridiculously over-the-top.

One of my biggest concerns initially was the control setup, which thankfully, doesn't saturate the system with waggle. It took a while for me to get the motion controls together with the actual button combinations, but once I took on the different challenges, I definitely found some finesse. It was apparent that the developers took the controls into serious account. I did find my arms getting tired after a few windmill throws or escape tactics, but I like the controls for one serious reason: they work best on Wii.

There was a guilty pleasure in binding an enemy with a tire, slamming a signpost into his skull, and hurling him into a gigantic press or spiked wall. And when in doubt, I found myself using the chainsaw to top off a combo. The one problem that I'm finding in the game that really bothers me is that there just isn't enough ways to score huge points. Spiked dumpsters, electrical machinery, or simply a giant pit are cool. I just expected more diversity.

I consistently found myself comparing this game to Viewtiful Joe in its gameplay. You're equipped with a few moves, but it's stringing the moves together that really proved beneficial. The commentary is a riot. It's undeniably vulgar, but it's hilarious to hear John DiMaggio and Greg Proops ramble off after Jack's wild killing spree.

So far, MadWorld is living up to the expectations. The controls feel tight and the action is over-the-top, just as promised. Look for my full review soon!

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