MX 2002 Featuring Ricky Carmichael

Counting this game, my past 3 out of 4 reviews have been in the УextremeФ category of games. So as you can imagine, I'm getting sick of them. However, MX 2002 turned out to be quite a refreshing experience, which a nice combination of two distinct types of gameplay. In addition to the games trick-based freestyle mode there is a very competent racing mode to boot. At first glance, the games racing engine seems like a mindless hold down the gas button and steer the cycle sort of thing. But when you dig deeper you'll find just the opposite. The bike's clutch (controlled with L-trigger) and suspension (controlled with R-trigger) play a vital role in whether or not you'll win a race. This might sound complicated, but trust me, it's not. Essentially, the clutch can be pressed in for a split second to give you an added boost, best for using when you come out of slow curves or after landing a big jump, as well, before you reach a jump if you charge up your suspension you'll get some killer air. What makes the racing experience so enjoyable is that you're always doing something, much better than just holding one button in, wouldn't ya say?

Unfortunately, the freestyle portion of the game isn't as enjoyable. You take the clutch/suspension techniques you've learned and add in a little tricking goodness on one of the many freestyle tracks. The setback here is that the trick system isn't very deep and while the controls are streamlined for simplicity, they do feel a tad on the clunky side. To perform tricks all you have to do is get some air, hold down the R-trigger, and press a variety of button combinations. Additionally, the control stick can be used to perform flips and spins. The system isn't the greatest, but then again, it could definitely be worse.

MX 2002 features over 30 real motocross pros, so fans of the sport can pick there favorite and go at it in the Exhibition, Freestyle, or Multiplayer modes, all which are selectable from the title screen. And as you'd expect, a career mode is also available, but instead of choosing one of the big stars you create you own character by choosing from a variety of licensed gear, including your bike, helmet, goggles, outfit, and even boots. Throughout all these modes you'll encounter over 22 different tracks that cover a broad range of events Ц motocross, supercross, amateur, and freestyle. Plus, 4 are exclusive to the Xbox version. With all of these riders, modes of play, and tracks, you should be playing this game for quite awhile.

Graphically, the game has PS2 port written all over it. However, the game is in no way ugly. It keeps a constant framerate, there are nice effects (like the dirt kicking up behind riders), and the tracks/characters all look nice. The one problem is that the textures are plain, plain, plain. Leaving for a simple, less exciting look. Xbox enhancements could have gone a long way. About the only sound effect worth mentioning in the game are the dead-on bike effects, the engines sound just as they do in real life. The game does have a nice rock sound track for you to jam to as you race; this includes such popular bands as Sum 41 and Saliva. As with a lot of game of this type, there aren't enough tracks and you end up hearing the same songs over and over again until you reach for the mute button. And in typical PS2 port fashion, the developers didn't take advantage of the Xbox's rip feature, so you won't be able to use your own tunes, boo!