GripShift is probably the most similar to Super Monkey Ball, but with some Stunt Race FX thrown in for good measure. . The game centers around a number of themed worlds, each containing several challenges which take place on floating race track-like courses. Each track can have a number of tasks, such as collecting all stars, reaching the goal as quick as possible, finding a hidden or hard-to-reach bonus emblem, or just simply winning a race. The tracks range from pure puzzle solving, to flat out high-speed races complete with nitros and weapons. The game mixes it up in a number of ways which keeps it pretty interesting. The more tasks you successfully complete, the more courses, characters, stunt cars (and accessories) and mini-games you'll eventually unlock. There are over 100 levels in total, and it'll take quite a while to complete them all. That being said, GripShift's major problem is definitely it's difficulty. It starts out at about a moderately difficult level and then ramps up dramatically. Obtaining a 100% complete rating on each track is not at all easy, even on the very first batch of challenges. There are usually one or two not-so-difficult tasks per track, but the remainder can and will cause you to sprout a few grey hairs. The problem is not necessarily a control thing either, it's more of a game level design issue.

The control in GripShift is tight, and the vehicles are really very responsive. Whether you are driving along a thin and twisty path, launching off a jump, or going through a massive loop-de-loop, you almost always feel like you are in control. The physics involved in the game are a bit different than you would expect, at least once airborne. When racing along a floating course, if you would expect to be dropping off the edge or jumping into the air quite often, you'd be right. The stunt cars can be fully controlled while in mid-air; Brakes and acceleration, steering, and even nitro boosts can all be utilized to position yourself where you need to be. Once you become accustomed to the physics it practically becomes second nature. The problem is that the courses, and the time restraints in particular for the tasks, become so difficult and unforgiving that pulling off delicate jumping maneuvers may take a dozen times or more. GripShift has some definite similarities with Super Monkey Ball in that respect... along with the floating track thing, of course. The game as a result can be frustratingly difficult pretty quickly, especially if you are the impatient type who doesn't like restarting a level many times over. On a related note, GripShift's loading times are thankfully very brief, so moving on to the next level or restarting the current one is quick and painless.

Visually, GripShift is a solid looking game, with a smooth framerate, nice texturing and effects, and good backgrounds. The style of the characters, and overall graphical design, are very Western. The developers have somehow put it together in a way that works however, and avoided the trap of being completely over-the-top annoying. The same could be said of eclectic soundtrack.

Besides the puzzle mode, GripShift is stocked with quite a few interesting and full-featured modes. There are 8 unlockable mini-games, such as Penguin Bowling, Bomb Pool, Soccer Crazy, Snaker and Ice Hockey for you to take on either solo, or with up to 3 friends via WiFi. GripShift also has a straight-up race mode, which can also be played by up to 4 players simultaneously. One really nice, and unexpected, addition is the ability to create your own levels with the in-game Track Editor and share them wirelessly with friends. Stock it full of huge ramps, nitros and loops, and enjoy.

GripShift is a fairly unique, enjoyable game, that works well as a handheld title. The difficulty may turn off a lot of gamers, but if you have a bit of patience to spare or are a fan of puzzlers such like Super Monkey Ball, the game can offer many hours of gameplay.