Dave Mirra Freestyle BMX 2

"Not the best not the worst but..."

Introduction
This is an extreme stunt game for the GCN(Nintendo Game cube) but you would be better off saving your money.
Sound
This is the high point of the game. The sound effects are realistic, and it has a great sound track. You can tell how much pain your rider is in when he grunts. The sound of metal on metal when you grind is fantastic.
Graphics
The graphics are not the major selling point in this game. At some points they are blocky or cartoony. The textures are extremely well done and you can tell they put a lot of time into it, unfortunately that took away from the game play developing time.
Game Play
There are more then 2000 tricks (that's more tricks then in any other stunt game I have seen). The Sick trick system allows you to do any basic B button trick and the throw a modifier to make it worth more points but also harder to land. They are realistic but nor over the top like some other stunt games. You have a trick list of all the main tricks your charecter can do it is hard to pull off the more advanced tricks. The challenges are either too hard or too easy. Combos do not feel as rewarding as in other games because you do not get any extra points for linking tricks together.
Replay Value
There is a multiplayer with a wide assortment of games including wipe out. You have to take turns there is no split screen. Some times during multiplayer it can get boring waiting for your turn. You can beat the game but not get all the respect every level has a competition its being able to unlock it and beat it thats the hard part. The is lots to do with the 17 character but you will not want to do it with more then one of them.
Controls
The controls are responsive. It is easy to add spins with tricks just by holding the L or R shoulder buttons or the Joy Stick. Its is hard to pull off the more advanced tricks 3 directions and the B button.
Closing State mant
Rent before you buy I read some of the reviews and was really hyped about the game but when I got it it was a near waste of my time and money(luckily it was on sale for $30 Cdn.). The game seems fun but something does not feel right about it. My overall score is a 6/10.

Reviewer's Score: 6/10, Originally Posted: 07/18/02, Updated 07/18/02