
If you've ever wanted to kick some serious butt while wearing tights... well, you probably should look elsewhere because 'Kick-Ass: The Game' for PS3 is about as enjoyable as stepping on a Lego brick in the dead of night. Based on the 2010 film that had moms clutching their pearls and any shred of respectability, this game crams in all the action but leaves behind the fun. Buckle up; it's going to be a bumpy ride!
'Kick-Ass: The Game' invites players to select from three characters: Kick-Ass, Hit-Girl, or Big Daddy. Each hero engages in straight-up brawling and trying to not get their faces smashed in (which, spoiler alert, usually happens). The gameplay is classic arena-style beat 'em up. Players can delve into single-player or multiplayer mode, which is basically the developers' way of saying you'll want a friend to suffer through this with you. Weapon upgrades and environmental finishers are scattered around like confetti, giving you the chance to unleash your inner superhero - or at least your inner toddler throwing a tantrum. Too bad the combo system is clunky and feels more like you're trying to perform an interpretive dance instead of launching an epic superhero move.
The graphics in 'Kick-Ass: The Game' are as uninspired as a bland oatmeal breakfast. Characters look somewhat like their cinematic counterparts, though the once fierce Hit-Girl now appears to have been on the receiving end of a quick trip to the budget salon. Environments lack any depth, with backgrounds that seem like they were created in five minutes by someone reading a 'How to Paint' book for toddlers. It's safe to say that you'll be too focused on the kick-fests to admire those less-than-stellar graphics. And let's not even talk about the occasional glitches that leave you questioning your sanity. Did that thug just float away? You bet they did!
'Kick-Ass: The Game' is a clear sign that sometimes, the attempt to turn a beloved source material into a game can only lead to one result: eternal shame. Despite charismatic characters and moments of potential, the game gets the short end of the stick with a labyrinth of poor controls, lackluster graphics, and its general inability to provide a good time. While you might want to kick some ass, just remember this title is a prime example of how not to make a superhero game. Better to save your time for actual fun, or at the very least, a Marvel movie marathon. In terms of superhero gaming, this one earns a sad 3 out of 10, stuck in the awkward limbo of mediocrity. Time to hit the 'Start Over' button and hope for better next time!