A few interesting techniques come into play, like jumping through a stunt barrel and performing aerial motions to score extra bananas. Unfortunately, that isn't enough to save this botched control scheme.

It's a shame, because the rest of the game looks decent. The tracks vary in design, from a lava-spewing volcano to underground caverns (complete with mine carts). Audio is made up of fun calypso-like tunes (including a few selections from the Donkey Kong Country games) and decent sound effects. The "monkey-speak" could've been done away with, though. It sounds like gibberish you'd hear from cranky tourists, rather than fun-loving monkeys.

Last but not least, Barrel Blast has several modes to choose from. Quick Race, Time Trial and Grand Prix are available, along with the option of taking a crash course in controls from Cranky Kong. Multiplayer is also available, with up to four people able to join in on a racing match at the same time. Unfortunately, online play didn't make the cut.

Donkey Kong: Barrel Blast could've been a great racing game, but the awful controls keep it from being enjoyable. It's without question one of Nintendo's poorest Wii games.