Dave Mirra Freestyle BMX 2

"Watch me do a one handed manual!"

Dave Mirra Freestyle BMX 2 has got to be one of the best extreme sport games I’ve ever played. It’s tricked out combo system is by far better than that other extreme sport game I’ve played. The incredible detailed and large stages are one of the best things about this game. Also you don’t even have to collect “S K A T E” anymore (cough, Tony Hawk games, cough)

Game play: The game is very smooth and some times offers some severe glitches that either bring you to a new part of the stage or occasionally freeze your game. The controls are very easy to learn and maneuver and offers fast and intense BMX riding. Two player modes are one main problem here. It does not offer “free ride” for both players so you’re stuck, along with your friend, in a stage for only about 3 minutes. The multi-player modes also don’t offer much mini games.

Visuals: Let’s get one thing straight. The game is very beautiful. It contains detailed bikes, character models, and ingenious level design. The body animations of when you fall or get hit by a car, truck, whatever are also very realistic.

Sound: This game offers great tunes from such artists like SUM41, Fenix TX, Gangstar, Ozzy, and Sublime. The sound effects are also great.

Story: No story what so ever. All you do is ride around in different locations of the world and complete various tasks that have been appointed to you. You also have to gain “respect points” from other pros such as Ryan Nyquist by completing the challenge he has offered you. Getting enough “respect points” will unlock better bikes so go get those points! By completing these tasks you also gain sponsorships from companies such as “FOX Racing” and other bike companies. They will give you stickers and such to collect and a new costume to wear.

Reply: You’ll be playing this for days, weeks, and months since you will never get bored of exploring the stages and trying to connect your character’s special moves. I still have a hard time trying to do the “triple back flip” for Dave Mirra.

Final thoughts: Another great title for the PlayStation2. Definitely check out this title and buy it. Even if you’re not a fan of the genre, this game will offer Tony Hawk a run for his money in the extreme sports games! It’s a great game and I will be playing it for years to come.

Reviewer's Score: 8/10, Originally Posted: 09/23/02, Updated 01/25/03