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While racing downhill has its own share of thrills it is the ability to grab air, and perform tricks that makes this title shine. The development team has made the process of doing stunts logical and progressive. Tricks can be as easy as a simple tap to the left or right on the D-pad or Analog stick, or as complex as pressing several buttons and the D-pad as well. The learning curve is small, as the more complex tricks will only work with a suitable amount of air beneath you. Attempting to do a forward roll without using a ramp will find your character face shoveling snow every time. As with anything players will learn over time which stunts are best performed when, and where. Virtually every button on the controller is used at some point – with several combinations required for the advanced stunts. Steering is handled with either the D-pad, which seemed to offer more reactive control, or the Analog stick that provided more precise movement. Either method worked very well and caused no sensation of awkwardness or discomfort. This is something everyone will appreciate as the pleasure of playing SSX causes large amounts of time to melt away into mere moments.
Graphically SSX is one of the PS2s better release titles with large colorful levels, and dead smooth framerates. Playing in two player split screen does diminish the size of the characters but is necessary to allow players to see enough of the course to react accordingly. Graphic pop-up was virtually non-existent, with all levels drawn well into the distance.
Music, voiceovers, and sound effects are also suitably placed with acid mixes making the most of the frantic action. While music is heard in the background during play this is muted when the player attempts a stunt – much like a crowd hushed during a critical moment. If successful the music kicks back in with extra sound effects rewarding the effort of the stunt. Something new comers will find initially confusing is that jumps, and ramps do not indicate how extreme the jump may be. Some are immense in length and depth, while others are little more than a speed bump. Without knowing the course players find themselves playing roulette with their stunt routine. Will the next jump be big enough for a somersault, or merely a 180? This annoyance is minor as gamers become accustomed to the courses.
At the end of the day, what players are left with is a title that caters for all walks of life and allows for considerable replay due to its variety and depth. Consider this a must buy.
Review copy: U.S. NTSC version 1 or 2 player Memory Card: 280k Widescreen support Due: On release (PAL version) Price: $129.95 RRP |