MXrider

UPC: 742725216433

Platform: PlayStation 2

Publisher: Atari Interactive, Inc.

Developer: Paradigm Entertainment, Inc.

Category: Racing

Style(s): Motocross

Synopsis: MXrider, the motocross title from Infogrames, comes blazing out of the gates with a license from FIM Motocross World Championship. Developed under the newly reborn Atari label, MX Rider incorporates both simulation and arcade elements into its racing style to create a game that is based in reality, but allows itself the fast pace and impossible air that only virtual racing can provide. MXrider features 23 authentic motocross tracks from around the world and 58 different riders pulled straight out of actual competition, including Thomas Traversini, Patrick Caps, and Carl Nunn. In addition to six new freestyle tracks, veteran FIM track designer Freddy Verherstraeten has lent his talents in creating six all-new supercross tracks to the title. MXrider's play options include: Trick-Attack Freestyle, Challenge, multiplayer components, and Single Race a Season mode, which is the meat of the game. In the Season mode, players will select a racer and take him through a grueling year of motocross mayhem, managing funds won from completing and winning races, upgrading equipment, and racing for the ultimate goal -- the FIM World Championship. Trick-Attack Freestyle gives players more space and more air to roam, letting them perform a number of different stunts while dealing with fantastic obstacles like shark tanks and volcanoes. In the Challenge mode, players can complete specific tasks to unlock secrets in the game, and the Single Race offers up a sole track to race for those who want some action without having to go through an entire season. ~ Jon Thompson, All Game Guide

Package Contents: 24-page Instruction Manual

Controls: Joystick/Gamepad

The instruction manual should help you understand what the different modes do, and give you tips on how to be a better rider. ~ Jon Thompson, All Game Guide

Not the most impressive visual display, but a very solid, unshaky presentation. ~ Jon Thompson, All Game Guide

MXrider is not without its share of flaws, but most will appreciate its depth. The racing flows well, delivering a realistic sense of speed and physics. Sliding into the turns feels right, and the balance of the rider is dead on. Control is generally tight, giving you a precise feel for the track and the bike itself. It isn't anything revolutionary, just very solid, balanced between simulation and arcade, delivering just enough technique to satisfy demanding players. The computer-driven opponents suffer from some of the same problems found in most racing titles, but while they never feel truly "alive," they do a fine job of keeping things competitive. They're formidable without being impossible to beat or overbearing, and players will be able to develop real strategies for getting around them. Some are sharper in turns, some are more physical, and players who pick up on the individual characteristics will have a better chance of winning. Perhaps the game's weakest characteristic is the lack of freedom you have off the course, which quickly becomes evident after making the wild jumps. Thanks to invisible walls to the left and right of the track, you'll often hit an unseen border after catching big air from a jump. This, unfortunately, stops you dead in your tracks. It's an annoying trait, one you'll have to compensate for on the fly, but it certainly isn't a game killer. The Season mode should be appreciated by racing fans. Each race is a time consuming event, usually with eight long laps to complete. Those looking for instant gratification might not be satisfied, but many players will enjoy the competitive atmosphere. You always feel like you have a chance to win, and the more you race, the better you'll perform. It's important things don't feel arbitrary in a lengthy season, and MXrider handles this concept well. The other modes aren't as significant as the Season mode, but they add a splash of variety. The Trick-Attack mode could have been better, as the special stunts are hard to do with any degree of consistency. The controls feel the shakiest in this portion of the game. Still, it's good for an occasional break, as players can catch tremendous air, and there are enough clever details in each level to keep things interesting. Challenge mode, likewise, is a nice diversion, as the tasks get more difficult with just the right curve. Single Race is exactly what you would expect, quick and dirty, and the multiplayer modes round out a fairly impressive package of racing styles. MXrider might not do anything to an amazing level, but it does so many different things in an above average way that it's hard not to recommend. Those who've never enjoyed motocross games won't find anything here to change their mind, but fans of the genre could do a lot worse. ~ Jon Thompson, All Game Guide

While none of the modes are as strong as the Season, they are diverse enough to warrant a look. ~ Jon Thompson, All Game Guide

The songs here lean more toward ska and punk, but they're a nice selection of catchy tunes, and the motorcycle sound effects are outstanding. ~ Jon Thompson, All Game Guide

MXrider is a fun game for any skill level. It might seem a bit long to some, but many will enjoy the balance between arcade and simulation. ~ Jon Thompson, All Game Guide

the game requires Joystick/Gamepad.