MX Unleashed - PS2

Since the beginning of the 3D gaming age, racing games in general have been much more dominant in the world of video games. In particular, Motocross games seem to be jumping onto shop shelves in leaps and bounds, and one publisher responsible for more than a few of these is THQ. Keeping with tradition, here's another from the publishing giant called MX Unleashed.

And unleashed it is, as this latest offering is perhaps THQ's greatest and most complete to date. Developed by Rainbow Studios, the folks behind Motocross Madness and ATV Off Road Fury, MX Unleashed delivers a solid game engine that pits players in some of the most realistic environments yet. Players must deal with "real world forces" that make the whole MX experience a more skilful challenge. You'll need to hit bumps softly, swing round hairpins smoothly and you'll also have to get to grips with a realistic clutch system.

The infamous multiplier trick system, prevalent in so many freestyle sports games, remains intact for MX Unleashed. In freestyle mode, a combination of d-pad and button presses will see your biker perform a trick in order to earn points. Keep the trick combo going to multiply that score by the total number of successfully executed tricks. It's not as easy as it sounds.

With regards to content, MX Unleashed plays host to more than 50 circuits that comprise of national, freestyle and Supercross Series courses. There is a selection of riders and bikes to choose from, a detailed career mode, and some 14 amateur, semi-pro and professional racing leagues to partake in. And if that's not enough for you there's also a multi-player split-screen option for a little friendly competition.

So there you have it. Another year, another motocross extravaganza from THQ. We wouldn't have it any other way. more