Rage of the Gladiator directed at WiiWare

Early next year, Conduit developer High Voltage Software will step into the Wii's currently vacant ancient combat arena with the 3D fighter Gladiator A.D. For those who can't wait that long for a spot of Spartacus-styled fun, Ghostfire Games is stepping up later this year with Rage of the Gladiator.

Expected to launch on the WiiWare downloadable game service this fall, Rage of the Gladiator is a first-person fighting game along the lines of Punch-Out. However, Rage trades in the hammerlike fists for the actual warhammer of gladiator Gracius. As the persecuted protagonist, players will run a gauntlet of 11 fantasy-themed bosses, from the minotaur Horlan to the snake-charmer Amit. Players will be able to develop Gracius along three distinct disciplines--offense, defense, and magic--unlocking new attacks, finishing moves, and combos along the way.

Rage of the Gladiator will be the second title from Ghostfire Games. The developer's debut game, Helix, launched on WiiWare last fall.