MadWorld 2 possible as Sega aims to change Wii-exclusive into franchise

MadWorld for WiiWii-exclusive MadWorld will spring into a whole series of sequels if it’s up to Sega. Sean Ratcliffe, vice president of marketing at Sega of America, said as much in a recent interview. Here are the choice quotes about the beat ’em up:

Question: “Sega is also going after the core audience with games like House of the Dead: Overkill and Mad World. How are consumers responding to those Mature-rated titles?”
Answer: “House of the Dead has done very well and has absolutely met our expectations. The first set of data for Mad World is very encouraging, as well.”

Question: “Do you see franchise potential for Mad World with sequels?”
Answer: “If it resonates with the audience, yes, we absolutely want to make that into a franchise.
I think it’s unique, and there are many aspects of that game which are sort of pushing boundaries. And it’s just great fun.” — Read the full interview at Venturebeat

Update July 1st: Sega has stated they haven’t given up on creating mature titles for the Wii. To quote Sega Europe’s Gary Dunn: “You have to push boundaries and explore. I think whilst MadWorld commercially didn’t sell what we were expecting I wouldn’t say it’s game over for mature Wii titles from Sega. […] We’ve got money to invest in development, we’re just considering where to invest it next.” — Read the full interview at Gamesindustry

Update January 2010: MadWorld director Shigenori Nishikawa said in the latest issue of Official Nintendo Magazine UK that Platinum Games wouldn’t mind making a second MadWorld game. To quote: “I think MadWorld was very well received and was acknowledged for its innovative graphical style and gameplay. We would definitely be interested in making a sequel in the future.”