Often times launch titles for new systems are a big letdown. I was so hyped up for this game, because it looked so damn good on the commercials. I wanted this game more than I wanted Bouncer, Tekken Tag Tournament or any of the other games everyone was anticipating for the Playstation 2. And while it seemed like SSX was getting lost in the shuffle my eyes were glued on the title and when the system came out, it was one of the first games I played (besides Kessen), and by no means was I disappointed. With so many games trying to capitalize on the recent success of the Tony Hawk franchise with little or no success I am happy to say that Electronic Arts has finally done the genre justice.

     From the commercials I was expecting a little more in the graphics department, but the game still delivered everything from grooves in the snow to the fantastic images in the background, this game is as great to look at, as it is to play. The game play is fantastic, and I picked up the skills pretty easy and despite falling many times, I didn't fall nearly as much as I have done in similar games.

     While different in terms of style of play from Tony Hawk, the games are similar in the fact that they are easy to get the hang of. And once you do, enjoy the ride of your life as you snow board through some of the most finely detailed slopes I have ever encountered in a game. Be warned there is nothing realistic about the kinds of jumps you make or amount of damage you take to get to the finish line, but it's supposed to be fun, and that's exactly what you get.

     Some of these courses are massive and include bumpers, flippers and every other damn obstacle you can imagine. You could use a short cut, but that may have not been the right thing to do, depending on the character chosen. That's right, each character has strengths and weaknesses and they do come into play. You can't just pick anyone and expect to win, without using strategy to your advantage. Just going down the slopes as fast as you can is not going to obtain a victory for you and neither is doing every trick imaginable. You need to judge when is the right time to do everything. But be careful to use your boosts wisely and keep yourself fully charged in this aspect, or your opponent will kick snow in your face. I'm glad that finally there is an extreme game that has some substance and strategy to back up the game play.

     Of course a good game can be hampered by bad sound and horrible graphics. As I told you before, the graphics are phenomenal as players move so fast and so smoothly, even when in split screen mode as you battle an opponent. The sound is even better as it flows smoothly with the action with pumping music that seems to go right along with the course you are going up against. The characters mouth off and they have some interesting things to say so pay attention. I have never seen a launch title with so much going for it in every category. This game is a must buy.

     Badseed's Bottomline: 10 out of 10. By far the most addictive and fun game I have played in a long time. Despite the fact that my girlfriend's brothers own the game and I could probably play it any time I want, I am definitely saving my cash to get a copy for myself. Everything about this game kicks ass from the cool menus to the loads of secrets that can be unlocked as you play on. This game will keep you busy for hours, so play alone or invite a friend and hit those mountains. Your opponent is not your only enemy...AND WATCH OUT FOR THAT TREE!!!

     Send your comments and questions about this article to Badseed@ybfree.com.