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Review: Moto GP 2 on Xbox (Reviews)

I don't know what it is about bike games that turns me off. Whether I'm just a big girls blouse that feels he needs the added security of 4 wheels and a metal cage or I'm worried about the leather chaffing me privates I just don't know.
Whatever the reason for my aversion it resulted in my never playing the original MotoGP, my loss it seems.
If there has ever been a choice between a 4 wheel racer or one with just 2 wheels it's the former that gets all my attention . . . that is until now.

The hotly anticipated follow up to MotoGP, cunningly titled MotoGP 2, has arrived and knocked every other racing game for six. It's not often that I'm so enthusiastic about a title so early in a review but I just can't contain myself. Since getting this game I've played little else.

Navigating through the well structured menus you'll soon see that there's plenty to do but, like me, you'll probably click on Quick Race and get down to the serious business of crashing, and you WILL crash… A LOT… at least to start with. However once you realize that the race winner isn't the guy who can hold his acceleration button down for an entire lap you'll be well on the way to success.

The first part of the game to grab your attention when you start the race is the graphics. Stunning doesn't really do them justice to be honest. The attention to detail is simply staggering and is fully realized in every department right from the detailing on the bikes to the roadside distractions, hell even the tarmac looks realistic. If you need further convincing sit back and let a friend have a go. Take a look about whilst they're tearing about the place, you'll be amazed at the detail you'll pickup

The sensation of speed is exhilarating, I dare you not to take a deep breath the first time you break hard for a tight corner from top speed. Also when you hit higher speed your peripheral vision starts to blur slightly reinforcing even more just how insanely fast you're going.

The sound also follows the high standards set by the graphics. Not only does it sound realistic but also the use of surround sound is spot on, to the point where you can actually hear which side someone is trying to overtake you on. There are numerous different engine sounds, environmental audio effects and surface noises that all blend together to create an extremely dynamic and believable soundstage.

As if you needed any further proof of the audio and visual excellence of this game try a race in the rain. My jaw almost hit the floor it's that impressive. For full effect play using one of the in-helmet views, it's scarily realistic stuff and no mistake.

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- posted by cro on 12.07.03
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