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/ Home / HDTV Programming / Show Reviews / MX vs. ATV Unleashed /
 Show Reviews

 
 MX vs. ATV Unleashed
 Scot Steinberg
 06/01/2005

Published by: THQ
Developed by: Rainbow Studios
Available for: PlayStation 2, Xbox
Reviewed on: Xbox

Ask motorsports enthusiasts what’s sweeter—four-wheel off-road action or straddling a cycle—and you’ll always get the runaround. Now we see why: No matter your choice of vehicle here, from dune buggy to golf cart, each can hold its own against airplanes and even helicopters. Packed with play modes (circuits, freestyle events, and tournaments) and sporting impeccable controls, this riotous racer’s feature set is even more attractive than the 1080i visuals it touts. Immersive backgrounds such as dusty roadways, snow-covered trails, and sun-dappled forests benefit from vibrant color patterns and atmospheric lighting. Between brilliant weather effects, detailed dirt clods and expertly articulated character models, one can’t help but admire the aesthetic. Middling texture quality, ephemeral skid marks, and stiff scenery props notwithstanding, you’ll adore tearing through gulches, grasslands, and arenas at convincingly chaotic speeds. Audio performance is pleasing too, with Nickelback and Papa Roach providing a hard-rockin’ accompaniment to the ever-present sound of engine roar. As a home theater showpiece though, the title is no corker. Still, its stellar handling and solid presentation will tickle your tailpipe.

 
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