The Wii version of
Marvel Ultimate Alliance utilizes the motion sensitive remote in an attempt to make it seem even more interactive than the other console versions. What it seems to do, though, is detract from the game. It really doesn't fit a game like this one, where you run around killing enemies with your friends. You don't want to memorize certain gestures to simply knock a guy down, while using certain button combos for other things, such as special attacks; it's too much. It's also very impractical. The lift or lower gestures may seem fine in theory, maybe even fun, but I didn't like them a bit. When I play a game, I don't keep my arms raised; I rest them on my lap or furniture. But if I'm suddenly expected to lower my arm, what do I do? Well, obviously I must first raise my arm then lower it. If I raised it too fast though, I've already screwed up and triggered the lift gesture.
Another annoying gesture is the Nunchuck shake. I had to watch a loading screen probably five or so unnecessary times because of this worthless gesture. It's used for activating objects and entering/exiting areas. Once, I was standing near the entrance of a level and my nose suddenly itched, so I quickly scratched it. Of course, I used the hand my Nunchuck was in and caused myself to go back to the previous area. For the life of me, I can't figure out why that gesture was implemented into the game since hitting the (Z) button does the same thing. Quite possibly the only useful gesture is the Nunchuck tilt. This controls the camera depending on which direction you tilt the Nunchuck. This gesture actually saves the use of another button and it just feels so darn neat. I actually gave up on all the other gestures in the game besides this one; I just mash the (A) button and use the (B) button for combos. That's the way a good 'ole brawler is supposed to be.
This game may be worth a rental if you have a Wii, especially if you're a huge Marvel fan. But I wouldn't suggest buying it. This could have been the best console for the game, but it just wasn't thought through very well, apparently. The controls are too weird and some of them are even unnecessary. If you have the means, I would recommend picking up a copy for a different console.