Amped sacrifices the cliche for simplicity. And rightfully so.
Visually, Amped is strong. You might think a game comprised mainly of snow is nothing to write home about, but the endless white powder (snow, naturally) is textured brilliantly. And anytime you have the chance to take your board off the beaten path and through a rather wooded section, it's something I highly recommend. All the edges are smoothed out and the lighting is right on.
Secondly, the game compromises cliche extreme sports concepts and trades them in for something infinitely more valuable... simplicity. Some games may have you shredding terrain while racing a clock and a group of other rebellious snowboarding teenagers, all the while suffering through unrealistic objectives and an unsupportive soundtrack. Amped keeps it easy. Just rack up points to open up more levels. (Tony Hawk's early games weren't too different). Simple. It allows for you to enjoy the scenery and focus on snowboarding on your own terms. You can freestyle in the air, all without having to worry where the next checkpoint is, or who's in front.
The multiplayer isn't all that in-depth, but this game isn't really all that strong in the single player mode. Again, it's a game you either love or regret playing. The does have an objective, though. As you rack up the points, you'll watch your rank drop from 120 closer and closer to #1. It hints at coaxing you into pouring more time into trying to get the champion spot. But if you get fed up of the pros trumping your elementary air moves, you can hunt for trash-talking snowmen and plow through them with authority.
It hints at something greater, but I hope that Amped 2 doesn't deviate too much from the norm. This game's a great break from your average button-masher.