The "General Games Chat" forum, which includes Retro Game Reviews, has been archived and is now read-only. You cannot post here or create a new thread or review on this forum.
I won't quote Mr Snuggly, but he did say in my profile that I was Dreamcast till I died (or similar), I don't want to prove him wrong or anything, but sometimes, you have to do things you dont't want.
Situation: 1 PS2, 1 game for life, which would you choose? Here's two I'd recommend. Have fun!
GRAN TURISMO 3:
Sold my PlayStation 2, saw GT3, bought a PlayStation 2 and GT3. Enough said. No wait, you want more than a sentence…
Ok, if you’ve been side tracked for a few years, with the last memory of a racing game in your mind being Sega Rally in the arcades, then hearing, yet alone seeing or even playing, GT3 will give you a rather nice surprise.
I’ve never purchase a games console solely for one game before, but the time had to happen, and Sony, I am sure are thankful for my purchase – I certainly am! The game is nothing short of spectacular, and I didn’t really want to admit that after raving about the Bizarre Creations game Metropolis Street Racer, but as close as it comes, I have to say Polyphony Digital take the chequered flag, and now lead the race for the best driving game, of all time.
Many people have said ‘been there, bought that, got the A international licence’, but I never did that, I was only able to scratch the surface of the prequels, but now I have the latest masterpiece in virtual racing – MS err what now? Sony don’t only demand respect, they actually deserve it and if I could recommend any one game to you this year then it would have to be Gran Turismo 3. This game is one of the most well known throughout the industry, so make sure you know what it’s about.
Racing is just the forefront of it: this game will have you enwrapped in a world of mufflers, lowered suspensions and other BHP enhancing customisations – if you don’t want to get all greasy and oily being a mechanic, buy GT3 – you don’t even have to be 17 to drive the cars! My TVR Tuscan handles like a barge, but still, it’s the most accurate graphical representation in video game land. You have to admire the people responsible for the shininess.
Graphics: amazing, the visuals are so much better than anything else I have played although I would say MSR, F355 come close. But this is what you know you bought your PlayStation 2 for, the cars look almost real – but don’t worry, you won’t damage them, as unfortunately, and somewhat lazily, there is no crash damage. But then, the other two games mentioned also refrain from allowing you to morph your car into mashed up heap. Respect.
Don’t be put off with the immediate lack of speed as you take on the likes of a Daihatsu in your lovely Volkswagen Beetle, progression is key in the game, and you won’t have to put up with any “PENALTY” warning signs as in another certain racing title. You’ll soon be rolling in the money form the Sunday Cup and be ready to take on the world in whatever you wish to spruce up and help you acquire that sense of smugness that we all get from beating irritating AI cars…Honda NSX anyone?
There are too many manufacturers to mention, but most cars are officially licensed, all look very realistic and accurate, and even have individual engine noise…I mean music! Talking of music, I don’t want to talk about the in game music, it’s just not right, I have no idea what was going on that night, we should be listening to Paul Oakenfold, and other quality artists, perhaps even the odd clip of Layla during an endurance race, anything but that noise!
The lighting effects are, yep, you guessed it – unrivalled. The PlayStation 2 is finally using it’s potential to the fullest and you will not be disappointed with your acquisition. There’s more to just racing though, as you have licenses to complete, cars to do up to the max and new cars to unlock – progress further, spend more time and you’ll be treated to some absolute caning beastie cars – namely the Viper GTS…
The presentation may not be as exciting as before, but it’s a lot easier, for someone who’s not used to the GT layout, it’s perfect. If you ever manage to pull yourself away from the single player experience, then you may find out that there’s a rather fantastic arcade mode, for two of you or more (tournaments) to battle it out on. GT3 rules, it is the king of racing, and I’d recommend it to anyone. 10/10
SSX:
Welcome to SSX (to SSX, to SSX), and as the start up sounds off you already get the feeling that the PlayStation 2 is going to perform some pretty impressive sound effects over time – already so soon, SSX demonstrates the superb sound quality that the PlayStation 2 really does posses – you should know by now that the ‘Dolby Digital’ sign on the PlayStation 2 does actually stand for something. In this brief paragraph, should you wish to skip the rest of the opinion, I’ll let you know that SSX is a good game, and probably is still one of the best PlayStation 2 titles out. It’s not perfect though, and if you want to know a little bit more about the game then read on!
The most horrible aspect of the game, other than the difficulty (as I will explain later) is the lack of a 60hz mode, and thus the game’s jerkiness and frame rate are a let down. The game would really benefit from such a feature, which is ever-present among the majority of the Sega Dreamcast games. Don’t worry too much though, although SSX won’t play as fast as the Japanese 60hz version, future PS2 games should include the option of 50hz/60hz (older Televisions may not cope with 60hz, but all new ones do!). SSX is still the best Electronic Arts game I have ever played, and is a darn sight more fun to play than the relatively pathetic Fifa 2001 on the format.
Graphically SSX is one of freshest games on the PlayStation 2 – with very much an arcade style graphical appearance in general, and with some brilliant lighting effects, but it would have been so much better with that 60hz option! Anyway, it isn’t quite as impressive as I had been previously told, but still I don’t see any better snowboarding game on the Dreamcast! I won’t attempt to compare this to the Supreme Snowboarding on the PC as the two games are very different, and well, it’d take too long! The snow effects are decent enough, and the characters look about right. But I don’t want to judge a game purely on its visuals, as the best part of SSX is the brilliant, although slightly flawed, gameplay.
SSX in many respects could be labelled ‘Tony Hawk’s on ice’, as it the main ideas are very similar although in the latter game, scoring trick points is basically the only target, whereas in SSX you can also race! Don’t be dismayed when you first play – it can be very frustrating when those forward flips don’t work to begin with, and forget about coming in 6th (last) place every race – the joy to SSX is progressing and becoming better at it, scoring better points and starting to look as though you’re an SSX pro! I’ll tell you something though, you will become addicted to this one – despite it’s flaws and imperfections, the game is the most played on my console, although I haven’t played it for a while – I guess it’s still in the machine seeing as it isn’t in the game box! Anyway, the more you play, the more you learn, the better the tricks and the more points you’ll get. Definitely a case of practice leads to improvement!
The number of modes SSX do not at first seem all that great, with only the World Circuit and Single Event appearing on the menu screen (after the welcoming sound of ‘welcome to SSX, which echoes out very well in my opinion!), but do not worry as there are four great events. In the world circuit mode you have to complete the entire season against the game’s best snowboarders, and in the world circuit (one player mode only) you’ll be able to perform in the Show off, Race and warm up! I strongly advise you practice a lot before taking on this mode, as it is very challenging! I’ve not completed it yet, and I don’t really think I can for the time being (work pressures forbid PlayStation 2 time), but the races involve three rounds – the first (easy), semi final (slightly harder) and the final round. You have to finish in the top 3 for each in order to progress to the next round! Finishing top 3 in the final will unlock the next course for you to try your hand at. Single event is for one or two players – giving you that split screen debacle and the feeling that your television isn’t quite big enough! Single events include the aforementioned 3 events, with the additional free-ride option.
The Venues: There’re 8 tracks in total, with seven main slopes and the bonus track, and all have been designed with you the gamer in mind. They haven’t made it easy, oh no – not by a long way, but you’ll start off with the easiest track: Snow Dream, which should take you around 2 minutes 30seconds. Elysium Alps, Merqury City Meltdown and the rest, which I shan’t tell you because there doesn’t seem to be any point! Names mean nothing really if you haven’t played the game – but needless to say, all the courses have been meticulously designed so that you go uphill, can perform the occasional ‘Forward flip with the tail fish with the 1080’ and so forth. Each track will be accompanied by commentary and an excellent soundtrack ‘I didn’t know backs could bend that way!’ is just one of the comments the computer will be screaming at you! Again, here’s an excellent example of the crisp ’n’ clear sound features from the PS2. Very good indeed!
The control system may take a bit of time getting used to but it’s very similar to Activision’s popular skateboarding game in some respects. There aren’t as many tricks to perform in SSX as in Tony Hawk’s, but try out some different techniques if you’re getting stuck – oh and holding down for longer will help! X is jump by the way. I recommend the advice event – where you get taught how to perfect and perform various tricks in a very nice indoor ongoing snow slope. They’re 6 characters in all, and each has his or her unique characteristics with some ‘witty’ chat back comments whenever you pick them ‘Whatever!’ ‘Yeah, yeah, yeah’ and alike! It’s a fun game, with character and charm but with some pretty diabolical, although bearable loading times!
The difficulty is very high, and there’s no way to adjust the level of difficulty in the world circuit mode – so don’t give up, it’s hard at first but you’ll get there in the end! It’s got it’s faults like when you’re snowboarder gets stuck just before the check point and you’re on the best score you’ve ever had in the show off mode, and you can’t get out! It’s just a flaw in the game – some blind spots where you simply can’t move. Anyway, the fireworks lighting effects are good and there’s a really fun feeling about the game – it’s the best EA title I know, and I would recommend it to my friends, enemies and relations.
I’d like to see a 4player version, a few more modes and some more tricks in the next game which should be out next year – there is a directors cut coming out soon, but if you have this one then wait for the proper sequel – let’s hope it lives up to more than the Fifa sequels!
Massive respect for EA Big! 9/10
I conclude, if there's only one game you're getting for the PS2, it has to be GT3.
Thank you.
Situation: 1 PS2, 1 game for life, which would you choose? Here's two I'd recommend. Have fun!
GRAN TURISMO 3:
Sold my PlayStation 2, saw GT3, bought a PlayStation 2 and GT3. Enough said. No wait, you want more than a sentence…
Ok, if you’ve been side tracked for a few years, with the last memory of a racing game in your mind being Sega Rally in the arcades, then hearing, yet alone seeing or even playing, GT3 will give you a rather nice surprise.
I’ve never purchase a games console solely for one game before, but the time had to happen, and Sony, I am sure are thankful for my purchase – I certainly am! The game is nothing short of spectacular, and I didn’t really want to admit that after raving about the Bizarre Creations game Metropolis Street Racer, but as close as it comes, I have to say Polyphony Digital take the chequered flag, and now lead the race for the best driving game, of all time.
Many people have said ‘been there, bought that, got the A international licence’, but I never did that, I was only able to scratch the surface of the prequels, but now I have the latest masterpiece in virtual racing – MS err what now? Sony don’t only demand respect, they actually deserve it and if I could recommend any one game to you this year then it would have to be Gran Turismo 3. This game is one of the most well known throughout the industry, so make sure you know what it’s about.
Racing is just the forefront of it: this game will have you enwrapped in a world of mufflers, lowered suspensions and other BHP enhancing customisations – if you don’t want to get all greasy and oily being a mechanic, buy GT3 – you don’t even have to be 17 to drive the cars! My TVR Tuscan handles like a barge, but still, it’s the most accurate graphical representation in video game land. You have to admire the people responsible for the shininess.
Graphics: amazing, the visuals are so much better than anything else I have played although I would say MSR, F355 come close. But this is what you know you bought your PlayStation 2 for, the cars look almost real – but don’t worry, you won’t damage them, as unfortunately, and somewhat lazily, there is no crash damage. But then, the other two games mentioned also refrain from allowing you to morph your car into mashed up heap. Respect.
Don’t be put off with the immediate lack of speed as you take on the likes of a Daihatsu in your lovely Volkswagen Beetle, progression is key in the game, and you won’t have to put up with any “PENALTY” warning signs as in another certain racing title. You’ll soon be rolling in the money form the Sunday Cup and be ready to take on the world in whatever you wish to spruce up and help you acquire that sense of smugness that we all get from beating irritating AI cars…Honda NSX anyone?
There are too many manufacturers to mention, but most cars are officially licensed, all look very realistic and accurate, and even have individual engine noise…I mean music! Talking of music, I don’t want to talk about the in game music, it’s just not right, I have no idea what was going on that night, we should be listening to Paul Oakenfold, and other quality artists, perhaps even the odd clip of Layla during an endurance race, anything but that noise!
The lighting effects are, yep, you guessed it – unrivalled. The PlayStation 2 is finally using it’s potential to the fullest and you will not be disappointed with your acquisition. There’s more to just racing though, as you have licenses to complete, cars to do up to the max and new cars to unlock – progress further, spend more time and you’ll be treated to some absolute caning beastie cars – namely the Viper GTS…
The presentation may not be as exciting as before, but it’s a lot easier, for someone who’s not used to the GT layout, it’s perfect. If you ever manage to pull yourself away from the single player experience, then you may find out that there’s a rather fantastic arcade mode, for two of you or more (tournaments) to battle it out on. GT3 rules, it is the king of racing, and I’d recommend it to anyone. 10/10
SSX:
Welcome to SSX (to SSX, to SSX), and as the start up sounds off you already get the feeling that the PlayStation 2 is going to perform some pretty impressive sound effects over time – already so soon, SSX demonstrates the superb sound quality that the PlayStation 2 really does posses – you should know by now that the ‘Dolby Digital’ sign on the PlayStation 2 does actually stand for something. In this brief paragraph, should you wish to skip the rest of the opinion, I’ll let you know that SSX is a good game, and probably is still one of the best PlayStation 2 titles out. It’s not perfect though, and if you want to know a little bit more about the game then read on!
The most horrible aspect of the game, other than the difficulty (as I will explain later) is the lack of a 60hz mode, and thus the game’s jerkiness and frame rate are a let down. The game would really benefit from such a feature, which is ever-present among the majority of the Sega Dreamcast games. Don’t worry too much though, although SSX won’t play as fast as the Japanese 60hz version, future PS2 games should include the option of 50hz/60hz (older Televisions may not cope with 60hz, but all new ones do!). SSX is still the best Electronic Arts game I have ever played, and is a darn sight more fun to play than the relatively pathetic Fifa 2001 on the format.
Graphically SSX is one of freshest games on the PlayStation 2 – with very much an arcade style graphical appearance in general, and with some brilliant lighting effects, but it would have been so much better with that 60hz option! Anyway, it isn’t quite as impressive as I had been previously told, but still I don’t see any better snowboarding game on the Dreamcast! I won’t attempt to compare this to the Supreme Snowboarding on the PC as the two games are very different, and well, it’d take too long! The snow effects are decent enough, and the characters look about right. But I don’t want to judge a game purely on its visuals, as the best part of SSX is the brilliant, although slightly flawed, gameplay.
SSX in many respects could be labelled ‘Tony Hawk’s on ice’, as it the main ideas are very similar although in the latter game, scoring trick points is basically the only target, whereas in SSX you can also race! Don’t be dismayed when you first play – it can be very frustrating when those forward flips don’t work to begin with, and forget about coming in 6th (last) place every race – the joy to SSX is progressing and becoming better at it, scoring better points and starting to look as though you’re an SSX pro! I’ll tell you something though, you will become addicted to this one – despite it’s flaws and imperfections, the game is the most played on my console, although I haven’t played it for a while – I guess it’s still in the machine seeing as it isn’t in the game box! Anyway, the more you play, the more you learn, the better the tricks and the more points you’ll get. Definitely a case of practice leads to improvement!
The number of modes SSX do not at first seem all that great, with only the World Circuit and Single Event appearing on the menu screen (after the welcoming sound of ‘welcome to SSX, which echoes out very well in my opinion!), but do not worry as there are four great events. In the world circuit mode you have to complete the entire season against the game’s best snowboarders, and in the world circuit (one player mode only) you’ll be able to perform in the Show off, Race and warm up! I strongly advise you practice a lot before taking on this mode, as it is very challenging! I’ve not completed it yet, and I don’t really think I can for the time being (work pressures forbid PlayStation 2 time), but the races involve three rounds – the first (easy), semi final (slightly harder) and the final round. You have to finish in the top 3 for each in order to progress to the next round! Finishing top 3 in the final will unlock the next course for you to try your hand at. Single event is for one or two players – giving you that split screen debacle and the feeling that your television isn’t quite big enough! Single events include the aforementioned 3 events, with the additional free-ride option.
The Venues: There’re 8 tracks in total, with seven main slopes and the bonus track, and all have been designed with you the gamer in mind. They haven’t made it easy, oh no – not by a long way, but you’ll start off with the easiest track: Snow Dream, which should take you around 2 minutes 30seconds. Elysium Alps, Merqury City Meltdown and the rest, which I shan’t tell you because there doesn’t seem to be any point! Names mean nothing really if you haven’t played the game – but needless to say, all the courses have been meticulously designed so that you go uphill, can perform the occasional ‘Forward flip with the tail fish with the 1080’ and so forth. Each track will be accompanied by commentary and an excellent soundtrack ‘I didn’t know backs could bend that way!’ is just one of the comments the computer will be screaming at you! Again, here’s an excellent example of the crisp ’n’ clear sound features from the PS2. Very good indeed!
The control system may take a bit of time getting used to but it’s very similar to Activision’s popular skateboarding game in some respects. There aren’t as many tricks to perform in SSX as in Tony Hawk’s, but try out some different techniques if you’re getting stuck – oh and holding down for longer will help! X is jump by the way. I recommend the advice event – where you get taught how to perfect and perform various tricks in a very nice indoor ongoing snow slope. They’re 6 characters in all, and each has his or her unique characteristics with some ‘witty’ chat back comments whenever you pick them ‘Whatever!’ ‘Yeah, yeah, yeah’ and alike! It’s a fun game, with character and charm but with some pretty diabolical, although bearable loading times!
The difficulty is very high, and there’s no way to adjust the level of difficulty in the world circuit mode – so don’t give up, it’s hard at first but you’ll get there in the end! It’s got it’s faults like when you’re snowboarder gets stuck just before the check point and you’re on the best score you’ve ever had in the show off mode, and you can’t get out! It’s just a flaw in the game – some blind spots where you simply can’t move. Anyway, the fireworks lighting effects are good and there’s a really fun feeling about the game – it’s the best EA title I know, and I would recommend it to my friends, enemies and relations.
I’d like to see a 4player version, a few more modes and some more tricks in the next game which should be out next year – there is a directors cut coming out soon, but if you have this one then wait for the proper sequel – let’s hope it lives up to more than the Fifa sequels!
Massive respect for EA Big! 9/10
I conclude, if there's only one game you're getting for the PS2, it has to be GT3.
Thank you.
i thought it said
GRAN TURISMO 3 VERSUS SEX?
lol
GRAN TURISMO 3 VERSUS SEX?
lol
yeah i'm pritty amazed by it. Usually it takes me a few days before i completly get into a game, but onimusha ha had me hooked since i first turned it on.
I did the same thing as you, I bought a PS2 just for GT3. I was amazed by it. Best driving sim of my life, but it didnt last. It only kept me hooked for about Two weeks. I only play it here and there now, just the same old thing really over and over.
i'm just glad their are other good games on the console. bought onimusha yesterday. And i'm absolutly lovin it.
i'm just glad their are other good games on the console. bought onimusha yesterday. And i'm absolutly lovin it.
I won't quote Mr Snuggly, but he did say in my profile that I was Dreamcast till I died (or similar), I don't want to prove him wrong or anything, but sometimes, you have to do things you dont't want.
Situation: 1 PS2, 1 game for life, which would you choose? Here's two I'd recommend. Have fun!
GRAN TURISMO 3:
Sold my PlayStation 2, saw GT3, bought a PlayStation 2 and GT3. Enough said. No wait, you want more than a sentence…
Ok, if you’ve been side tracked for a few years, with the last memory of a racing game in your mind being Sega Rally in the arcades, then hearing, yet alone seeing or even playing, GT3 will give you a rather nice surprise.
I’ve never purchase a games console solely for one game before, but the time had to happen, and Sony, I am sure are thankful for my purchase – I certainly am! The game is nothing short of spectacular, and I didn’t really want to admit that after raving about the Bizarre Creations game Metropolis Street Racer, but as close as it comes, I have to say Polyphony Digital take the chequered flag, and now lead the race for the best driving game, of all time.
Many people have said ‘been there, bought that, got the A international licence’, but I never did that, I was only able to scratch the surface of the prequels, but now I have the latest masterpiece in virtual racing – MS err what now? Sony don’t only demand respect, they actually deserve it and if I could recommend any one game to you this year then it would have to be Gran Turismo 3. This game is one of the most well known throughout the industry, so make sure you know what it’s about.
Racing is just the forefront of it: this game will have you enwrapped in a world of mufflers, lowered suspensions and other BHP enhancing customisations – if you don’t want to get all greasy and oily being a mechanic, buy GT3 – you don’t even have to be 17 to drive the cars! My TVR Tuscan handles like a barge, but still, it’s the most accurate graphical representation in video game land. You have to admire the people responsible for the shininess.
Graphics: amazing, the visuals are so much better than anything else I have played although I would say MSR, F355 come close. But this is what you know you bought your PlayStation 2 for, the cars look almost real – but don’t worry, you won’t damage them, as unfortunately, and somewhat lazily, there is no crash damage. But then, the other two games mentioned also refrain from allowing you to morph your car into mashed up heap. Respect.
Don’t be put off with the immediate lack of speed as you take on the likes of a Daihatsu in your lovely Volkswagen Beetle, progression is key in the game, and you won’t have to put up with any “PENALTY” warning signs as in another certain racing title. You’ll soon be rolling in the money form the Sunday Cup and be ready to take on the world in whatever you wish to spruce up and help you acquire that sense of smugness that we all get from beating irritating AI cars…Honda NSX anyone?
There are too many manufacturers to mention, but most cars are officially licensed, all look very realistic and accurate, and even have individual engine noise…I mean music! Talking of music, I don’t want to talk about the in game music, it’s just not right, I have no idea what was going on that night, we should be listening to Paul Oakenfold, and other quality artists, perhaps even the odd clip of Layla during an endurance race, anything but that noise!
The lighting effects are, yep, you guessed it – unrivalled. The PlayStation 2 is finally using it’s potential to the fullest and you will not be disappointed with your acquisition. There’s more to just racing though, as you have licenses to complete, cars to do up to the max and new cars to unlock – progress further, spend more time and you’ll be treated to some absolute caning beastie cars – namely the Viper GTS…
The presentation may not be as exciting as before, but it’s a lot easier, for someone who’s not used to the GT layout, it’s perfect. If you ever manage to pull yourself away from the single player experience, then you may find out that there’s a rather fantastic arcade mode, for two of you or more (tournaments) to battle it out on. GT3 rules, it is the king of racing, and I’d recommend it to anyone. 10/10
SSX:
Welcome to SSX (to SSX, to SSX), and as the start up sounds off you already get the feeling that the PlayStation 2 is going to perform some pretty impressive sound effects over time – already so soon, SSX demonstrates the superb sound quality that the PlayStation 2 really does posses – you should know by now that the ‘Dolby Digital’ sign on the PlayStation 2 does actually stand for something. In this brief paragraph, should you wish to skip the rest of the opinion, I’ll let you know that SSX is a good game, and probably is still one of the best PlayStation 2 titles out. It’s not perfect though, and if you want to know a little bit more about the game then read on!
The most horrible aspect of the game, other than the difficulty (as I will explain later) is the lack of a 60hz mode, and thus the game’s jerkiness and frame rate are a let down. The game would really benefit from such a feature, which is ever-present among the majority of the Sega Dreamcast games. Don’t worry too much though, although SSX won’t play as fast as the Japanese 60hz version, future PS2 games should include the option of 50hz/60hz (older Televisions may not cope with 60hz, but all new ones do!). SSX is still the best Electronic Arts game I have ever played, and is a darn sight more fun to play than the relatively pathetic Fifa 2001 on the format.
Graphically SSX is one of freshest games on the PlayStation 2 – with very much an arcade style graphical appearance in general, and with some brilliant lighting effects, but it would have been so much better with that 60hz option! Anyway, it isn’t quite as impressive as I had been previously told, but still I don’t see any better snowboarding game on the Dreamcast! I won’t attempt to compare this to the Supreme Snowboarding on the PC as the two games are very different, and well, it’d take too long! The snow effects are decent enough, and the characters look about right. But I don’t want to judge a game purely on its visuals, as the best part of SSX is the brilliant, although slightly flawed, gameplay.
SSX in many respects could be labelled ‘Tony Hawk’s on ice’, as it the main ideas are very similar although in the latter game, scoring trick points is basically the only target, whereas in SSX you can also race! Don’t be dismayed when you first play – it can be very frustrating when those forward flips don’t work to begin with, and forget about coming in 6th (last) place every race – the joy to SSX is progressing and becoming better at it, scoring better points and starting to look as though you’re an SSX pro! I’ll tell you something though, you will become addicted to this one – despite it’s flaws and imperfections, the game is the most played on my console, although I haven’t played it for a while – I guess it’s still in the machine seeing as it isn’t in the game box! Anyway, the more you play, the more you learn, the better the tricks and the more points you’ll get. Definitely a case of practice leads to improvement!
The number of modes SSX do not at first seem all that great, with only the World Circuit and Single Event appearing on the menu screen (after the welcoming sound of ‘welcome to SSX, which echoes out very well in my opinion!), but do not worry as there are four great events. In the world circuit mode you have to complete the entire season against the game’s best snowboarders, and in the world circuit (one player mode only) you’ll be able to perform in the Show off, Race and warm up! I strongly advise you practice a lot before taking on this mode, as it is very challenging! I’ve not completed it yet, and I don’t really think I can for the time being (work pressures forbid PlayStation 2 time), but the races involve three rounds – the first (easy), semi final (slightly harder) and the final round. You have to finish in the top 3 for each in order to progress to the next round! Finishing top 3 in the final will unlock the next course for you to try your hand at. Single event is for one or two players – giving you that split screen debacle and the feeling that your television isn’t quite big enough! Single events include the aforementioned 3 events, with the additional free-ride option.
The Venues: There’re 8 tracks in total, with seven main slopes and the bonus track, and all have been designed with you the gamer in mind. They haven’t made it easy, oh no – not by a long way, but you’ll start off with the easiest track: Snow Dream, which should take you around 2 minutes 30seconds. Elysium Alps, Merqury City Meltdown and the rest, which I shan’t tell you because there doesn’t seem to be any point! Names mean nothing really if you haven’t played the game – but needless to say, all the courses have been meticulously designed so that you go uphill, can perform the occasional ‘Forward flip with the tail fish with the 1080’ and so forth. Each track will be accompanied by commentary and an excellent soundtrack ‘I didn’t know backs could bend that way!’ is just one of the comments the computer will be screaming at you! Again, here’s an excellent example of the crisp ’n’ clear sound features from the PS2. Very good indeed!
The control system may take a bit of time getting used to but it’s very similar to Activision’s popular skateboarding game in some respects. There aren’t as many tricks to perform in SSX as in Tony Hawk’s, but try out some different techniques if you’re getting stuck – oh and holding down for longer will help! X is jump by the way. I recommend the advice event – where you get taught how to perfect and perform various tricks in a very nice indoor ongoing snow slope. They’re 6 characters in all, and each has his or her unique characteristics with some ‘witty’ chat back comments whenever you pick them ‘Whatever!’ ‘Yeah, yeah, yeah’ and alike! It’s a fun game, with character and charm but with some pretty diabolical, although bearable loading times!
The difficulty is very high, and there’s no way to adjust the level of difficulty in the world circuit mode – so don’t give up, it’s hard at first but you’ll get there in the end! It’s got it’s faults like when you’re snowboarder gets stuck just before the check point and you’re on the best score you’ve ever had in the show off mode, and you can’t get out! It’s just a flaw in the game – some blind spots where you simply can’t move. Anyway, the fireworks lighting effects are good and there’s a really fun feeling about the game – it’s the best EA title I know, and I would recommend it to my friends, enemies and relations.
I’d like to see a 4player version, a few more modes and some more tricks in the next game which should be out next year – there is a directors cut coming out soon, but if you have this one then wait for the proper sequel – let’s hope it lives up to more than the Fifa sequels!
Massive respect for EA Big! 9/10
I conclude, if there's only one game you're getting for the PS2, it has to be GT3.
Thank you.
Situation: 1 PS2, 1 game for life, which would you choose? Here's two I'd recommend. Have fun!
GRAN TURISMO 3:
Sold my PlayStation 2, saw GT3, bought a PlayStation 2 and GT3. Enough said. No wait, you want more than a sentence…
Ok, if you’ve been side tracked for a few years, with the last memory of a racing game in your mind being Sega Rally in the arcades, then hearing, yet alone seeing or even playing, GT3 will give you a rather nice surprise.
I’ve never purchase a games console solely for one game before, but the time had to happen, and Sony, I am sure are thankful for my purchase – I certainly am! The game is nothing short of spectacular, and I didn’t really want to admit that after raving about the Bizarre Creations game Metropolis Street Racer, but as close as it comes, I have to say Polyphony Digital take the chequered flag, and now lead the race for the best driving game, of all time.
Many people have said ‘been there, bought that, got the A international licence’, but I never did that, I was only able to scratch the surface of the prequels, but now I have the latest masterpiece in virtual racing – MS err what now? Sony don’t only demand respect, they actually deserve it and if I could recommend any one game to you this year then it would have to be Gran Turismo 3. This game is one of the most well known throughout the industry, so make sure you know what it’s about.
Racing is just the forefront of it: this game will have you enwrapped in a world of mufflers, lowered suspensions and other BHP enhancing customisations – if you don’t want to get all greasy and oily being a mechanic, buy GT3 – you don’t even have to be 17 to drive the cars! My TVR Tuscan handles like a barge, but still, it’s the most accurate graphical representation in video game land. You have to admire the people responsible for the shininess.
Graphics: amazing, the visuals are so much better than anything else I have played although I would say MSR, F355 come close. But this is what you know you bought your PlayStation 2 for, the cars look almost real – but don’t worry, you won’t damage them, as unfortunately, and somewhat lazily, there is no crash damage. But then, the other two games mentioned also refrain from allowing you to morph your car into mashed up heap. Respect.
Don’t be put off with the immediate lack of speed as you take on the likes of a Daihatsu in your lovely Volkswagen Beetle, progression is key in the game, and you won’t have to put up with any “PENALTY” warning signs as in another certain racing title. You’ll soon be rolling in the money form the Sunday Cup and be ready to take on the world in whatever you wish to spruce up and help you acquire that sense of smugness that we all get from beating irritating AI cars…Honda NSX anyone?
There are too many manufacturers to mention, but most cars are officially licensed, all look very realistic and accurate, and even have individual engine noise…I mean music! Talking of music, I don’t want to talk about the in game music, it’s just not right, I have no idea what was going on that night, we should be listening to Paul Oakenfold, and other quality artists, perhaps even the odd clip of Layla during an endurance race, anything but that noise!
The lighting effects are, yep, you guessed it – unrivalled. The PlayStation 2 is finally using it’s potential to the fullest and you will not be disappointed with your acquisition. There’s more to just racing though, as you have licenses to complete, cars to do up to the max and new cars to unlock – progress further, spend more time and you’ll be treated to some absolute caning beastie cars – namely the Viper GTS…
The presentation may not be as exciting as before, but it’s a lot easier, for someone who’s not used to the GT layout, it’s perfect. If you ever manage to pull yourself away from the single player experience, then you may find out that there’s a rather fantastic arcade mode, for two of you or more (tournaments) to battle it out on. GT3 rules, it is the king of racing, and I’d recommend it to anyone. 10/10
SSX:
Welcome to SSX (to SSX, to SSX), and as the start up sounds off you already get the feeling that the PlayStation 2 is going to perform some pretty impressive sound effects over time – already so soon, SSX demonstrates the superb sound quality that the PlayStation 2 really does posses – you should know by now that the ‘Dolby Digital’ sign on the PlayStation 2 does actually stand for something. In this brief paragraph, should you wish to skip the rest of the opinion, I’ll let you know that SSX is a good game, and probably is still one of the best PlayStation 2 titles out. It’s not perfect though, and if you want to know a little bit more about the game then read on!
The most horrible aspect of the game, other than the difficulty (as I will explain later) is the lack of a 60hz mode, and thus the game’s jerkiness and frame rate are a let down. The game would really benefit from such a feature, which is ever-present among the majority of the Sega Dreamcast games. Don’t worry too much though, although SSX won’t play as fast as the Japanese 60hz version, future PS2 games should include the option of 50hz/60hz (older Televisions may not cope with 60hz, but all new ones do!). SSX is still the best Electronic Arts game I have ever played, and is a darn sight more fun to play than the relatively pathetic Fifa 2001 on the format.
Graphically SSX is one of freshest games on the PlayStation 2 – with very much an arcade style graphical appearance in general, and with some brilliant lighting effects, but it would have been so much better with that 60hz option! Anyway, it isn’t quite as impressive as I had been previously told, but still I don’t see any better snowboarding game on the Dreamcast! I won’t attempt to compare this to the Supreme Snowboarding on the PC as the two games are very different, and well, it’d take too long! The snow effects are decent enough, and the characters look about right. But I don’t want to judge a game purely on its visuals, as the best part of SSX is the brilliant, although slightly flawed, gameplay.
SSX in many respects could be labelled ‘Tony Hawk’s on ice’, as it the main ideas are very similar although in the latter game, scoring trick points is basically the only target, whereas in SSX you can also race! Don’t be dismayed when you first play – it can be very frustrating when those forward flips don’t work to begin with, and forget about coming in 6th (last) place every race – the joy to SSX is progressing and becoming better at it, scoring better points and starting to look as though you’re an SSX pro! I’ll tell you something though, you will become addicted to this one – despite it’s flaws and imperfections, the game is the most played on my console, although I haven’t played it for a while – I guess it’s still in the machine seeing as it isn’t in the game box! Anyway, the more you play, the more you learn, the better the tricks and the more points you’ll get. Definitely a case of practice leads to improvement!
The number of modes SSX do not at first seem all that great, with only the World Circuit and Single Event appearing on the menu screen (after the welcoming sound of ‘welcome to SSX, which echoes out very well in my opinion!), but do not worry as there are four great events. In the world circuit mode you have to complete the entire season against the game’s best snowboarders, and in the world circuit (one player mode only) you’ll be able to perform in the Show off, Race and warm up! I strongly advise you practice a lot before taking on this mode, as it is very challenging! I’ve not completed it yet, and I don’t really think I can for the time being (work pressures forbid PlayStation 2 time), but the races involve three rounds – the first (easy), semi final (slightly harder) and the final round. You have to finish in the top 3 for each in order to progress to the next round! Finishing top 3 in the final will unlock the next course for you to try your hand at. Single event is for one or two players – giving you that split screen debacle and the feeling that your television isn’t quite big enough! Single events include the aforementioned 3 events, with the additional free-ride option.
The Venues: There’re 8 tracks in total, with seven main slopes and the bonus track, and all have been designed with you the gamer in mind. They haven’t made it easy, oh no – not by a long way, but you’ll start off with the easiest track: Snow Dream, which should take you around 2 minutes 30seconds. Elysium Alps, Merqury City Meltdown and the rest, which I shan’t tell you because there doesn’t seem to be any point! Names mean nothing really if you haven’t played the game – but needless to say, all the courses have been meticulously designed so that you go uphill, can perform the occasional ‘Forward flip with the tail fish with the 1080’ and so forth. Each track will be accompanied by commentary and an excellent soundtrack ‘I didn’t know backs could bend that way!’ is just one of the comments the computer will be screaming at you! Again, here’s an excellent example of the crisp ’n’ clear sound features from the PS2. Very good indeed!
The control system may take a bit of time getting used to but it’s very similar to Activision’s popular skateboarding game in some respects. There aren’t as many tricks to perform in SSX as in Tony Hawk’s, but try out some different techniques if you’re getting stuck – oh and holding down for longer will help! X is jump by the way. I recommend the advice event – where you get taught how to perfect and perform various tricks in a very nice indoor ongoing snow slope. They’re 6 characters in all, and each has his or her unique characteristics with some ‘witty’ chat back comments whenever you pick them ‘Whatever!’ ‘Yeah, yeah, yeah’ and alike! It’s a fun game, with character and charm but with some pretty diabolical, although bearable loading times!
The difficulty is very high, and there’s no way to adjust the level of difficulty in the world circuit mode – so don’t give up, it’s hard at first but you’ll get there in the end! It’s got it’s faults like when you’re snowboarder gets stuck just before the check point and you’re on the best score you’ve ever had in the show off mode, and you can’t get out! It’s just a flaw in the game – some blind spots where you simply can’t move. Anyway, the fireworks lighting effects are good and there’s a really fun feeling about the game – it’s the best EA title I know, and I would recommend it to my friends, enemies and relations.
I’d like to see a 4player version, a few more modes and some more tricks in the next game which should be out next year – there is a directors cut coming out soon, but if you have this one then wait for the proper sequel – let’s hope it lives up to more than the Fifa sequels!
Massive respect for EA Big! 9/10
I conclude, if there's only one game you're getting for the PS2, it has to be GT3.
Thank you.