Common Sense Media Review
By Common Sense Media
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Ultra-violent fighting game rewards grisly killing.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 18+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Play
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 8 parent reviews
Based on 10 kid reviews
Kids say that while the game is deemed excessively violent, many reviewers argue that it is not as bad as other titles in the genre, suggesting it's primarily for adult players. The game's unique black and white visuals and engaging gameplay mechanics are praised, but there is a consensus that it is not suitable for younger audiences due to its graphic content and language.
- violence debate
- adult-oriented game
- black and white visuals
- unsuitable for kids
- engaging gameplay
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
What's It About?
The premise of MADWORLD puts the main character, Jack, into a post-apocalyptic reality TV show in which he moves through distinct neighborhoods in city, killing a series of deadly attackers for points. An off-screen pair of voices supply audaciously profane play-by-play and color commentary throughout as Jack, equipped with a chainsaw and assorted objects, brutally murders opponents. Additional style points are awarded the more sadistic the kill.
Is It Any Good?
Rendered in stark black and white (except the gushing red blood), the graphic style evokes comic books and graphic novels; speech bubbles pop from characters, the screen breaks into multiple panels, and every aspect of the environment and action is over-the-top. There's no denying MadWorld's impressive visual style, but the gameplay is mediocre.
It's intuitive that the Wii nunchuck and remote serve as your weapons for slashing, punching, flinging, and executing brutal combo attacks and finishing moves. However, some difficult camera angles and imprecise controls weaken the experience. MadWorld may appeal to comic book connoisseurs, but fans of fighting games won't find much sophistication in the gameplay.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about whether violent games evoke aggressive feelings in the player, or do they provide a harmless way to blow off steam? Is it fair to make violent Wii games only for adults or should the "family-friendly" console only have entertainment that everyone can play?
Game Details
- Platform : Nintendo Wii
- Pricing structure :
- Available online? : Not available online
- Publisher : Sega of America
- Release date : March 10, 2009
- Genre : Action/Adventure
- ESRB rating :
- Last updated : October 9, 2025
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