Publisher: THQ
Ages: seven and up.
Parental
Advisory:
None
To ride the world's most advanced two-wheeled racing machines, THQ's MotoGP 2 delivers an intense and in-depth racing experience. This follow-up to MotoGP, which until now has been the best motorcycle game for the Xbox, offers an even stronger experience that includes excellent control, great graphics, and entertaining options that keep players coming back for more.
As the name implies, the game is based on the 2002 MotoGP series and it features 16 real-world tracks, and the event's bikes and riders. A career mode lets players create a rider and compete in the full MotoGP series. Here, players choose bikes and leathers and adjust parameters such as braking, acceleration, speed, and more, and then race in circuits. Typical of race games, players gain points by winning races. In the game's quick race mode, players can dive right in and race, and a fun stunt mode lets players execute crazy stunts-wheelies and more-for points.
The intuitive control system is much like that in the prior game and offers precise control that appeals to serious race fans. The controls adequately adjusts such details as lean angle and acceleration through turns, and players can even shift the weight of riders to increase traction. To accommodate a variety of players, the settings may be adjusted so the game is easier to play in the beginning.
The extraordinary graphics do a great job of depicting the bikes, tracks, and riders, as well as various weather conditions. The game also offers fun and entertaining multi-player modes that support split-screen, system link, and Xbox Live. Multi-play activities include quick race, grand prix, championship, tag, and stunt mode, which are far more fun than simply competing against the computer.
MotoGP 2 is the Xbox's definitive motorcycle race game. It's realism may be a bit much for younger players who may prefer more forgiving arcade action. But MotoGP 2 offers depth and an entertaining experience to those who invest in it.
8/4/03 www.daytrum.com Editorial Staff
