Contrary to recent reports, Sega has confirmed it will try to release the controversial Madworld in Australia next year, a Wii game with "over-the-top violence" and "murderous moves".

In Madworld, players control a character called Jack caught up in a murderous game created by terrorists. To survive, players must master the use of weapons and items, perform brutal finishing moves delivered by the Wii Remote and Nunchuk controller, and compete in "ultra violent" mini-games "designed to push you over the edge".

Sega say they hope the game will become an "instant classic" on the Wii thanks to its highly stylised black and white graphics and "irreverent humour and over-the-top violence" which "delivers a visceral gaming experience".

A Sega spokesperson said today that "in response to recent reports regarding the Australian release of Madworld, Sega Australia would like to clarify that we are currently planning on releasing Madworld to the Australian market.

"We believe Madworld will be an asset to the industry and will do what we can to support its release in our territory."

But Sega is likely to face difficulty in getting the game approved for release in Australia by the Classification Board. If the game is deemed unsuitable for an MA15+ rating it will be refused classification and unavailable for sale due to the ongoing absence of an R18+ rating for games in this country.

Late last month horror game Silent Hill: Homecoming became the fourth game this year to be refused classification by Australia's censors. The Classification Board decided that several "high impact" moments made the game unsuitable for an MA15+ rating, including scenes where the main character is decapitated and has a drill forced into his eye.

Censorship ministers in March agreed to canvas public opinion on the proposed introduction of a long overdue R18+ classification for games, but are still working on the mechanisms to let Australians have their say.