Sometimes focusing on what you already do well is actually better than trying to reinvent yourself. That, in a nutshell, is SSX.
It’s been nearly a decade since I got my hands on SSX for the PS2, and within minutes of putting in this latest next-gen edition I felt like I was taken right back to that time. And that, my friends, is a GREAT thing.
For starters SSX has taken everything you loved about the old versions and jazzed it up. Unlike many other EA titles that have tried to create entirely new experiences — and failed miserably — SSX celebrates the past while giving you all of the benefits of 2012’s technology.
PRESENTATION
I’ve always loved the feel of SSX once I entered the game. The radio station broadcast, the killer soundtrack, some actually dsecent one liners — it’s all back and better than ever. Not only does this style of presentation fit a snowboarding video game, it actually could serve as a model for many games in other genres. It simply works. You feel immersed into a world of extreme globetrotting boarders from the minute you press start.
VISUALS
In a word? Stellar. The visuals of these landscapes and (when in air) “skyscapes” is simply remarkable. Every descent has its own personality and feel. SSX renders fast, looks amazing and just when you think you’ve seen it all, you find something new that really makes you take a step back and let your eyes pop out. The other thing that helps SSX is what we play these games on, and I’m not kidding. In 2002 the idea of 50″-60″ TV’s, much less plasma and LCD/LED, wasn’t in reach for the average gamer. Now you get incredible bang for your buck, and this is the kind of game the truly reaps the benefits. Vivd color, amazing wide-ranging visuals and small bits of eye candy really make it shine. This game is a treat to look at, not just play.
GAMEPLAY
The controls are smooth and easy enough to learn, to where anyone can pick this game up and play at an adequate rate within 15 minutes. I’m not saying you’ll master it but it has a far easier learning curve than other sports titles like NBA 2k12 or FIFA 12. You can select old school or new school controls and the tutorial itself is enough to get you up to speed. Once you’re in the game it’s just a matter of a few runs and some creativity to get you out in the powder and crushing record scores. Here, your imagination is your only limitation.
GAME MODES
This is where many might be upset. In today’s world it seems like games are graded on features more than anything else. In specific, multiplayer and online has taken over our mindsets. SSX, however, doesn’t have the greatest multiplayer in the land. It doesn’t bother me that much here as I’m happy enough with the game’s asynchronous ghost race system, which asks me to simply try to destroy my buddies’ previous scores. It’s rinse, wash, repeat, but still fun. That said many will ask for more and be left begging. The online feature of RiderNet, where you’ll be competing with tons of other riders and destroying each other’s runs on a mass level, is cool but a bit too wide-ranging for me, but I’m sure many will dig it.
[pullquote_right]Here, your imagination is your only limitation.[/pullquote_right]
Overall the single player is really enjoyable and has a nice twist built in with the “race around the world” story line. All kinds of events litter the “Deadly Descent” tour and make for a challenging and fun experience. You can spend a large portion of your life toying around with this mode, its features, and the plethora of equipment combos.
VERDICT
I’m not an extreme sports fan and never have been. I am however an SSX fan, which should say a bit about how strong the series has always been. I loved this game in college, and a decade later I’m in love with this version as well. More than anything, the game is a classic good time. If you’re looking for soul-absorbing franchise modes like more popular team sports game… well, forget it. Move on. But if you want a fun game to spend 30-minutes on and move on with your day, or talk some smack with the guys before you head out to the bar or the game, then this game is a must add. It’s fresh, fun and above all easy to plug and play. Though the majority of your initial game time will be the single player story, over time this will become a staple of your “change of pace” gaming, and a terrific hangout time with friends.
This review is based on a copy of the game sent to SideQuesting by the publisher.
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