The controls in MadWorld are almost perfectly implemented. The game uses a standard Wii Remote and Nunchuk setup. Combat moves are initiated via the Wii-mote, while movement and camera controls are left to the Nunchuk. What sets MadWorld controls apart from other Wii titles out there is just how well they work. Moreover, simple waggle and button combinations along with more complex, prompted motion commands feel satisfying, engaging, and forgiving. It really is the perfect mix of standard and motion-sensitive controls!

Graciously, movement and adjusting camera angles via the Nunchuk are just as reliable. Players can easily dodge and flip out of danger with quick gestures, and re-centering and locking onto enemies is a breeze. I especially liked the lock-on function, because players simply have to briefly hold the C button and then they can release it, freeing up the index finger to perform other moves, jumps, etc. If you want to end the lock-on, just depress the C button a second time when you're ready to roam. The only real control issue I found was it was often difficult to pick objects up off the ground during combat. That's because environmental weapons are lifted by holding the A button, which is also used for grappling your enemies. As a result, it can be a bit cumbersome when you've got a lot of guys around you.

The game's visual and audio presentation really brought everything together. Before popping in the disk, I was a bit worried about the all black and white graphics. As it turns out, this risky move was just what was needed to set the tone. The contrast between the colorless world and the crimson splatters really accentuated the bloodbath. What's more, the game is full of excellent character design and an incredible amount of detail. The title really looks like a well-drawn comic. In fact, this is one of the very best-looking Wii titles thus far, if not the best.

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Likewise, the audio in MadWorld is ballsy and crude but utterly awesome. The commentator duo portrayed by Greg Proops and John DiMaggio is a thing of genius. First of all, the writing is belly laugh funny, the gruff and boisterous character of their voices is perfect for the game, and their delivery is so good you could swear they did this on a weekly basis. The banter that goes back and forth between the two is full of F-sharps, incredibly lewd, and perfectly timed to Jack's actions. There is a good deal of repetition, but there is enough new material as you advance that it never seems to be bothersome. Also, the hip hop and instrumental soundtrack is not only fitting, it is pretty darn tight! One could easily turn down the sound effects and commentary just to listen to the sweet beats and solid raps. The only downside to the sounds is that they tend to clash with each other if all are left at 10 (the default setting). I found I needed to adjust the sound effects, music, and commentary constantly in order to suit my mood. Thankfully, this can be done at any time with just a couple of button presses.

MadWorld is a surprisingly excellent game that is bound to piss off a lot of people. However, it's refreshing for adult gamers to have access to such interesting and mature (immature?) fare on Nintendo's console. The single-player game is loads of fun and is guaranteed to have you laughing hysterically. Unfortunately, the two-player split-screen action is only good for playing through the mini-game BloodBath Challenges - online co-op and competitive bouts would have been great. Still, I dare anyone to find more entertainment in a game, even if the experience only lasts a handful of hours.

By Jonathan Marx
CCC Editor / News Director