|
'Tis the season...to repackage older games onto other systems, a growing trend with third party developers. On the one hand, it's great for single system owners that have been looking forward to a game that was previous only available on another console. On the other hand, unless significant upgrades have been made during the off time, multiple console owners could care less since they've most likely played once already. Despite the name change to Big Air Freestyle, this is still the same game as MXRider when it appeared on the PS2 months ago. For further evidence, visit our review for that title here on Gaming Age. I encourage you to read through that review for more specific details because outside of dropping the licensed riders, this is the exact same game. Control is simple to pick up and play but won't suck you in. The single player racing mode has decent replay value due to earning money and winning championships, but without engaging gameplay, it's a moot point. The challenges are also a worthy distraction with varying levels of difficulty. They kind of feel like license tests from GT3. What spoils this mode is that they are based mainly on performing stunts, when the animation all but kills the high flying acts. The music is licensed punk/rock, and if it isn't up your alley, then you'll just have to turn it down.
Big Air is decent for a quick pick up and play, just like it was on the PS2. Personally it's a little too simplified for my tastes, but I could see how it might appeal to a more casual or younger race fan. Besides the very poor stunt animation, there's nothing fundamentally "wrong" with the game, it's just a matter of gameplay preference. You could do better with other motocross titles this holiday season.
|
