Wolverine is on the prowl again with a new movie and a video game to boot. This latest entry into the X-Men franchise was developed by Raven Software and published by Activision. Raven previously worked on titles such as Star Wars: Jedi Outcast, Jedi Academy, and the legendary Soldiers of Fortune games. Don't worry, they had nothing to do with that garbage SOF: Payback sequel for Xbox 360 and PS3. Anyways, the game is all about gutting and dismembering your opponents. And I mean it's a blood fest! Raven Software has created the most accurate portrayal of Wolverine to date.


The story loosely coincides with the origins movie and introduces Logan's exploits as Weapon X. The game actually starts off as a prequel to the film and chronicles the the time when Logan was running with his commanding officer Stryker and brother Victor Creed (Sabertooth). But, unfortunately the story is told poorly with mediocre cut-scenes. It's not bad, but it's not great either.


The graphics in the game are a mixed bag. Wolverine's character model looks great and the deaths are bloody and grotesque. But, the game is plagued with with glitches, tearing, and sometimes an awkward camera angle that can give you problems in tight spaces. But, as you go threw the game you will spot some good textures, water effects, and great animations. It would seem that time constraints (2 year development cycle) effected the final production and presentation of the game. On a high note, Wolverines regeneration looks sweet! The damage happens in real time in four layers- skeleton, muscle, skin, and shirt.


The sound in the game is well done. Hugh Jackman reprises his role as Wolverine and he does a great job. From the sound of flinching your claws and slashing, to the Erie smack and splat of the blood. It's just sick. And the music really adds to the atmosphere and tone of the game. The only thing missing is are profanities. But hey, at least we got blood and guts. Right?


The controls in this game are excellent. Your going to behead bad guys, tear people in half with your claws, hack off arms at the shoulders, gut soldiers and shove a man's head into the moving blades of a helicopter. X-Men Origins is using a simple yet effective control scheme. You have a light attack, heavy attack, grapple, block, jump, a counter move (timing is everything), and special abilities such as Rage moves. There are also combos you can perform using the combination of light and strong attacks. Add to this the streams of blood of your screaming opponents! Wow, this game is bad ass! The only downside to the controls is the repetition. But, it's blood and guts in all it's glory. And it will keep you playing.


In conclusion, there are some items to be found throughout the game. And if your playing the Uncaged Edition, you will be treated to the Danger Room where you'll square off against classic Wolverines from the comics. If you beat that particular Wolverine then you inherit his costume. This game is a lot of fun and if you liked any of the God of War games, then you should pick this up. Everyone should experience this game, at the very least RENT IT.

This review is for the Xbox 360 release of X-Men Origins: Wolverine.