Ugly Americans is a popular adult cartoon on Comedy Central. The show takes place in an alternate version of New York where monsters, demons, and zombies co-exist with humans. Now, mature fans of the show can enjoy a downloadable video game (360 version reviewed here) with Ugly Americans: Apocolypsegeddon.

Gameplay is a mix of side-scrolling beat ‘em ups combined with run and gun shooting action. Up to four can play at the same time and choose one of four popular characters from the cartoon. Pick up weapons to give you different kinds of projectile shots, and nab power-ups to temporarily increase your speed, strength, etc. Play control is simple and easy to learn. Just run and shoot with the analog sticks, and use the right trigger to unleash special attacks.

There are some RPG elements thrown in as well. Defeat enemies to earn experience points to level up various stats on each character. Plus, gather cash to buy extra goodies. Collect hidden demon babies to add extra attributes to characters as well.

The story is told through animated cut scenes and there’s probably enough material there to make a whole TV episode. However, the animation is even more choppy in the game than the show. But at least they got the voice actors, I guess. I really wouldn’t know as I’m not a big fan of the cartoon. It really helps to watch the show before playing the game, though, otherwise you’ll be as clueless as me and not know the characters, story, or why in the world they show a koala man during the Game Over screen.

The game isn’t as much fun if you play by yourself. Plus it’s a lot harder, as there aren’t any teammates to revive you if you die. And you only get one life and must restart the level over if you are the only one playing. This game is best enjoyed by a group of adults playing together who are fans of the TV show.

Kid Factor:

Ugly Americans: Apocolypsegeddon is rated M for Mature with ESRB descriptors of Strong Language, Blood and Gore, Intense Violence, and Sexual Themes. A lot of times when I review an M rated game, I might be a little lenient and be OK with older teens playing. But not this time. While the violence is cartoony, it’s still pretty bloody. And the game starts out with one of the characters holding a blow-up doll, for starters. This game is a hard M for Mature and meant for adults only, just like the Comedy Central show.

Tags: Game Reviews