Concept:
The latest entry in the MX vs. ATV series; this time with more handling options.
Keep:
The terrain deformation. The game's tracks bear the brunt of tires and skids; damage done to the track doesn't go away making every successive lap a new experience as you dodge, weave or use the track's damage to your benefit.
The trick system. It's like Street Fighter, except on a motor bike. As you launch yourself from ramps, you can flick the stick in familiar quarter circle motions to perform a vast array of tricks.
Correct:
The handling. The "Reflex" system works just fine, but on the bikes the general controls impart a feeling of a lack of control. Making sure your bike doesn't spaz out and flip you off requires some twitch precision, making races a bit of a chore.
Cut:
The soundtrack. Metal is fine, but all metal music can be cacophonous rather than complimentary.
Conclusion
MX vs. ATV Reflex is THQ's latest in the kitchen sink racing series. This time you get all the two and four-wheeled vehicle action you could want on an array of exotic courses.
The "Reflex" is more than just a tagline, but really a new way to control your bike and your rider. The left stick controls the handle bars while the right stick lets you control the physical position of your rider giving greater control and ease over where you want to go. Reflex gives that extra bit more when it comes to tight cornering and making sure you get a position advantage on the 11 other racers.
The free-for-all loading screen returns this year, along with online mini-games and an Omnicross "Baja mode," like MotorStorm, where all vehicles meet on a single track to duke it out for supremacy. All of the game's modes are available for online play, and mini-games like "Snake" (a game where you need to cut off your opponent) and Capture the Flag are available only for online play.
Gamers will be able to customize their car and one of six professional riders, including Josh Grant, Ricky Carmichael and Jeremy McGrath; the game includes nearly two-dozen other professional riders that will appear as challengers in races.
If you've been waiting for greater realism in biking and a game that embraces the details of motocross, then MX vs. ATV Reflex is for you.
