Extended Review
A few months ago, GameDaily reviewed the Japanese version of the long-awaited PlayStation 3 racing game MotorStorm. Despite its outstanding visuals and intense racing action, it came up short. That version of MotorStorm was a rush job, pushed onto store shelves without online play and only a handful of tracks to choose from, but with the U.S. version, Sony and Evolution Studios put in the extra effort to improve the game. While it fails to qualify as racing perfection, MotorStorm kicks up enough mud to give PS3 owners some peace of mind.To win, gamers achieve first place no matter what. Throughout each event, players not only have to contend with ruthless competition, but also the terrain itself. Ridges, cliffs, rocks, bridges and mountains all play a part during each race. People who don't pay attention run the risk of being knocked into an abyss or smack right into a rock formation. This results in a cataclysmic crash, with the vehicle of choice breaking apart -- like LEGO blocks thrown on the sidewalk. MotorStorm's game play works on a kinetic, arcade-style level. Those expecting a down-and-dirty racing extravaganza won't have any problem getting it. The difficulty level has an excellent balance here, so players should have no trouble adapting.
Vehicle selection makes a huge difference as well. Choosing the motorcycle, for example, gives players a faster little ride, along with the ability to slip through smaller areas. However, it leaves them vulnerable to larger vehicles. Using a big rig, on the other hand, gives the player power, even if speed gets sacrificed.
A few hardcore driving fans may be discouraged by MotorStorm's ten tracks. (Perhaps Evolution Studios can remedy that with new track downloads on the PlayStation Network). However, the quality of these tracks make up for the limited count. The tracks look outright beautiful on a low and high definition TV, with terrain that appears snatched from Monument Valley. Caverns and rocks loom throughout as vehicles crash and bump into each other. The in-game camera only features two angles, first and third person. However, players have the option of peering along the sides or rear of their car with the right analog stick at any time. The game as a whole shows muddy beauty in every corner of its development, right down to the cool little splattering effects that fling onto the screen.
MotorStorm's soundtrack features a number of alternative rock tunes, including selections from Nirvana ("Breed", one of their best songs), Wolfmother, Queens of the Stone Age and several others. Not a dull song sits in the bunch, with each one adding to the fury that explodes on-screen. The sound effects seem limited to engine noises, rumbling crashes and the occasional crowd cheers, but the audio holds up well overall.
Online play also made the cut and it rocks. Up to twelve players hop into a race, dueling against each other to score the mud-drenched victory. The game also features a PS Network ranking system, where players work their way up the MotorStorm charts to become king of the hill... or the mud pile.
MotorStorm's limited amount of tracks and few options leaves a little bit to be desired, but that can be resolved with a sequel. For the time being, this incredible racing game shouldn't be missed. Featuring a presentation that brings out the best in the PS3, the racing remains intense throughout and the online play should make this an instant favorite around the Sony community. This forecast calls for plenty of kick-ass excitement... and MotorStorm delivers it.
Final Score: 8 (out of 10)
Related Links
MotorStorm Game Guide
SCEA
bravenet.com