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By Lonnie on November 25th, 2001
Introduction What do you get when you mix hard-core motocross challenges with zany arcade like gameplay? MXRider, is probably the best answer to that question. With the Reinvention of the Atari brand, Infogrames along with developers Paradigm Entertainment brings us what could be one of the best MX games to date.Presentation Considering MXRider is an officially licensed product of the FIM Motocross World Championship, there are 23 authentic FIM tracks as well as over 50 licensed riders. To add to the arcade feel there are 6 Fantasy/Freestyle arenas. Along with the season mode, MXRider offers trick-attack freestyle modes, challenges, single races, and a corresponding assortment of multiplayer races.Graphics & Sound Graphics are as good as if not better than those seen in MX 2002. Everything is well animated, with the exception of tricks in the freestyle mode. Tricks seem to look unreal and poorly animated, however, everything else is very well done. When splashing through mud and water the rider becomes covered in mud from head to toes. Your tires seem to kick mud onto your TV screen too. Load times are not too long either, granted you will have to wait about 8 seconds. These wait times are well worth the ride. The music didn’t exactly thrill me either, perhaps it wouldn’t have been so bad if the songs didn’t repeat themselves over and over. The soundtrack is made up of several unknown or upcoming alternative rock bands. The sound effects are top notch though.Gameplay Single and Seasonal challenges pretty much is the core elements of gameplay for MXRider and well executed at that. The game give and exceptional sense of speed while still manages to accelerate that off road feeling.The trick aspect of MXRider isn’t quite so well executed, however. While it’s a lot of fun to play through the nicely designed freestyle courses, executing moves using the trick system can be frustrating at times. There are over 30 tricks to pull off using the digital pad or analog stick. While in theory this usually works, this was done very unintelligently and really downgrades the rush of pulling off moves. In the end once you get used to the trick system you will enjoy racking up points in the freestyle arenas, leaping through flaming hoops, and jumping over shark infested tanks.Lasting Appeal This game is pleases pretty much anyone. Personally I like games such as Tony Hawks Pro Skater or Dave Mira BMX. But if your looking for some insane motocross action I pick MXRider over the competition. MX 2002 is aimed towards simulation, and MXRider is just plain fun.Conclusion If you already own MX 2002 and you cant wait for a new motocross game, go pick this one up, if your not a big motocross fan we recommend you rent it first. MXRider scores highest on its multiplayer experience so if you have a little/older brother or a loved one you want to sling mud on from first place you will definitely want to pick this title up. | 
