Rage of the Gladiator is to become the first downloadable title to support MotionPlus controls, according to a report published on 1UP. For those late to the party, Nintendo’s MotionPlus peripheral is designed to improve the accuracy of the Wii Remote. Retail releases such as Wii Sports Resort and Grand Slam Tennis have employed the technology in recent months to considerable acclaim.

A first person melee combat game, Rage of the Gladiator is the second WiiWare release from Ghostfire Games. Set in the fictional city of Averlance, it follows the story of Prince Gracius as he battles for his life in a blood soaked arena. Mythological foes such as the Minotaur, Medusa and Chimera await him. Oh, and they throw in a Ninja as well, just for the hell of it.

The game features a rudimentary system of advancement and customisation. Each victory earns a player skill points, which can be used to enhance the Prince’s offensive, defensive or magical abilities. A range of finishing moves are available but one stands head and shoulders above the others: the ability to transform into a colossus and crush your opponents underfoot. It’s almost as if they’re eavesdropping on my fantasies…

Will Rage of the Gladiator be the first of many WiiWare titles to boast MotionPlus Support? One thing is certain, if you are yet to climb about the MotionPlus Express, you won’t be left out in the cold. Ghostfire Games CEO Ed Roman confirmed on the company’s website that Rage of the Gladiator will also support standard Wii controls. Look for it later this year.

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