IS the GREAT MotoGp franchise DOOMED w/o THQ behind the wheel?
Ok, now for my review! I have logged in about 5 hrs into the career mode and have to say that it isn't exactly what I'd expected. Things have changed with CAPCOM backing the brand. The number one thing that I've noticed is that you no longer feel as if the only thing you have to control is the motorcycle itself. This time around you also have to be aware of the rider's position on the bike in conjunction to what maneuvers you are attempting on the machine! For some this will be an instant turn-off because it makes the game more difficult to master. I myself, was frustrated with my lack of ability to complete a lap around familiar tracks in a compettitive manor. I decided to stick with Simulation mode, (the hardest difficulty), and adjust my riding techniques accordingly to keep the bike off the tarmac and up front with the leaders of the pack. After an hour or so, I finally realized that the limits that I could push my machine just weren't as extreme as that of previous installments of the series. Once you get accustomed to this and know your limits, you get a newfound respect for the game. Although it is Harder to get used to, it is undoubtably a more Realistic experience for the player. When you're riding well you can feel it and when you're not, you can see it in the riders movements and in your laptimes. I was never a fan of the Extreme mode offered in the past few installments and felt that it took away from the real experience to be had in the games. Yes, it's easier to ride bikes that don't wreck around a track but this isn't the way to get the most out of a game that offers a challenging and rewarding MotoGp season. I personally was glad to see the inclusion of this mode omitted from the series so that focus could remain on real world racing in a very compettitive sport.
Ok, enough rambling, my final scores are as follows: Graphics 7.5 (Not ugly, but not pushing the limits of current gen hardware by any means).
Gameplay 9.0 (Once you get the feel used to the control of the bikes, there's no better racing experience to be had.)
Multiplayer 8.5 (Online racing is lag-free and compettitive, only gripe is NO voice chat!)
Single Player 8.5 (Career mode is both rewarding and fulfilling with unlockables and performance upgrades from the 125cc entry up to the Gp season finale.)