Metascore
32 out of 100

Generally unfavorable - based on 17 Critics

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 0 out of 17
  2. Negative: 15 out of 17
  1. The game does have its perks, and those would all belong to the graphics, which are very well done and match the TV's character design.
  2. If you were stranded on a desert island and could have either a container of Silly Putty or a PlayStation 2, a monitor and Celebrity Deathmatch, you'd be better off choosing the putty.
  3. Since the game does provide some laughs and is fun when a friend is over $20 isn't too bad for the game.
  4. 40
    Not only did it skip over the elements that make the TV show so memorable in terms of its presentation, but it wasn't much fun to play either.
  5. Playing MTV’s Celebrity Deathmatch is like watching a bad episode of the show and owning it is like watching that same episode over and over and over and over again. I think I’ll pass.
  6. Underneath it all is nothing. The fighting engine is so basic that it faces competition from GBA games. All you have to do is button mash the attack button and you're more than likely to win the match.
  7. There's no skill involved at all as it's more a test of thumb durability than cagey fighting tactics.
  8. It reeks of "shovel-ware," a game that was stripped of both function and price then sent to retailers in the hopes of turning a quick buck. The gameplay is shallow and often needlessly frustrating, with few attacks really being entertaining, but most lacking any sort of humorous overtone.
  9. But if you’re looking for a poorly-assembled gimmick of a game that serves as a friendly reminder of the good ol’ Celebrity Deathmatch days on MTV, all for a discounted price of $19.99, then CD just might be for you. If you’re not looking for authenticity, though, stay far, far away from this one.
  10. 32
    What’s the maximum amount of fun that can be had by battling over the top celebrities represented as clay model figures doing something similar to wrestling but not quite wrestling? Not a lot.
  11. It's neither run nor funny - you're better off spending $20 on something else. [Jan 2004, p.125]
  12. Celebrity Deathmatch's biggest problem isn't its timing, but, rather, it's the absolutely horrid gameplay and complete lack of any worthwhile features.
  13. Sarcasm aside, I wouldn't burn this game for warmth if a vat of dry ice got dumped on my head. [Jan 2004, p.135]
  14. 20
    As a game, though, Celebrity Deathmatch dies a faltering and unfunny death.
  15. The game is insultingly easy, offers little play value (forget about replay), and ultimately is simply not entertaining. If you are really that curious, or highly intoxicated, do not do anything else but rent it.
  16. 20
    A budget priced video game is usually associated with a development involving with minimal effort and cost to the publisher. Sometimes there's a sincere effort made to provide gamers with a good deal (read: "Virtua Fighter 4: Evolution"), but Gotham Games and Big Ape's Celebrity Deathmatch doesn't even half-ass an attempt.
  17. Besides the two seconds of fatality joy, the only other redeeming quality of this game is its price. Major retail outlets tag it at about $20. That’s still about $19 overpriced, but at least they’re not trying to pretend this decorative coaster is anything else.
User Score

Generally unfavorable- based on 18 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 3 out of 12
  2. Negative: 8 out of 12
  1. AndrewJ.
    0
    Without doubt, one of the worst games I have ever played. I completed it fully in 33 minutes and the replay value was completely nil. And there are only about 12 celebrities that you can play, and most of them are B-grade celebrities anyway. Full Review »
  2. ChrisM.
    0
    This game blew worse ass then I do after eatting 2 bowls of chili, 5 bean burritos, 2 loaves of garlic bread, and 600 rotten eggs. I would actually have to say that I believe I am most likely 40% dumber now after playing it. Don't touch it...put your wallet back in your pocket and take your girlfriend or perhaps blow-up doll if you are like that...out to eat and dance. Full Review »
  3. Celebritydeathmatchsucks
    3
    This is the worstr game i have ever played. it has no skill at all i was just pressing any button. the celebrites arent even good. it is a complete waste of money. im returning my copy of it to the shop. do not buy...........it sucks. Full Review »