Reviews// Trials Evolution

RedLynx's level designs have taken a turn for the bizarre, and it pays off. Where the layouts were implausible in HD, they've strayed into the impossible in Evolution. Floating islands, Escher-esque physics and tributes to other downloadable games are all par for the course. You'll think you've fallen into a rhythm of tight little rolling jumps, then all of a sudden you're descending down a massive rollercoaster of a level. The game is constantly different and constantly exciting.

Also thrown in to the single-player mode are Tournaments and the 'Skill Game Circus'. The former strings together races and challenges you to beat them without going over a certain number of faults. The latter presents a series of mini-games, such as a race in which you're basically running on fumes and an event in which you have to cover as much distance as possible off a jump whilst flapping your arms like an addled dodo. They don't add a vast amount to the meat of the main events, but think of them as a nice bit of seasoning, if you like.

Real time multiplayer has been brought to the table. You can play either locally or across Xbox Live. Up to four bikes are lined up so you can go at it, with points awarded based on both your position and number of faults. Being placed at the back of the screen is a little annoying, but it all basically works. Alternatively, across Xbox Live, you can race solo with your opponents' ghosts showing up. It's not as compelling an experience as the single-player mode, but it adds a bit of longevity to the game.

As with HD, a level editor is available. This time out a 'pro' version is offered alongside the 'lite' version, giving players access to more advanced tools. I've never been much use with a suite of level-building tools so I won't say too much about them except to note that some of the early creations look promising. They're a little rough around the edges, but I've played riffs on Angry Birds and the FPS genre, as well as some very competent straightforward tracks. I'm pretty confident that in a few weeks we're going to see some pretty impressive stuff pop up.

There are a couple of niggles about Trials Evolution. The camera can work against you at times, meaning that you can't see your landing until the last moment. There are a couple of dodgy respawn points in the multiplayer. Very occasionally there are obstacles that might actually be too difficult rather than just being uniquely punishing to me personally.

These are minor gripes, however. Trials Evolution really is a joy to play. It's an incredibly simple concept built on to near-perfection. The movement and balance of the bikes is delightfully intuitive and, on a really base level, just great fun. At the same time Trials Evolution meaty and challenging and leaves you with a constant pang for more.

Pros
+ Well balanced.
+ Excellent controls.
+ It's, well... lots and lots of fun.
+ Very rewarding.

Cons
- Occasionally awkward camera angles
- Sometimes-shonky respawn points in multiplayer
- ... That's all, actually.

SPOnG Score: 9/10