The game has two gameplay choices: the story mode we've been talking about, which involves both platforming and lots of hack 'n slashing, and the arena mode, which pits you against other characters in a small scenario with limited access to weapons. Neither one of them was truly enjoyable, but the arena mode is the worst of the two, even when played against other players either locally or online. You can brawl against others, chop off their limbs, and see who's more sanguinary, but ultimately, it's all just fighting chaos with little rhyme or reason. You can also play the story mode cooperatively, and they can easily drop in and out, but that just means it'll be two of you dealing with the redundant gameplay rather than just one.

Like I mentioned before, the visuals may look funny and funky enough to appeal to some players, and at the same time, they look sufficiently childish that some kids and parents may get confused about the intended audience of this game. However, it's not a game for everyone. I initially enjoyed the vibrant environments and cartoonish character designs, as awkward as they may be. Unfortunately, the camera is always panned out, not letting you see exactly what's going on, and all those powerful colors and wacky designs just turn into pure chaos and confusion. One couldn't tell if you're picking up a bird nest or a broomstick, a ruler or a saw, if it wasn't for the text up above telling you what you grabbed. Also, the blatant gore inspiration of the game doesn't translate into a delightful gore-fest. You're rarely treated to nice limb-chopping scenes that are worth your time. The game tries to zoom in and show you on one side of the screen, but it happens so fast you can barely see it in detail. Sure, the enemies split into pieces and there's a lot of blood on the ground after you kill them, but it might as well be ketchup!

All in all, nothing can save this game. There might be a small bunch of people who can make the best out of it, but it truly isn't a worthwhile experience, especially at its outrageous full retail price. Despite its good overall potential, large amount of long and short range weapons, and the many unbelievable promises, the linearity of the levels, lackluster storytelling, redundant and unpleasant action gameplay, unsophisticated and unpolished controls, and lack of the promised gore turned Fairytale Fights into a nightmarish yarn you should probably avoid.

By Maria Montoro
CCC Site Director