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MotoGP 07
MotoGP 07 races its way onto the XBox 360
that transforms gamers into a professional motorbike racer at insane
speeds and next generation graphics. As the MotoGP series is the
definitive motorbike racing game in the console world, this latest
incarnation adds a few new tweaks to the franchise such as improved
graphics and adjusted gameplay.
As the old "proverb"
goes, "if it isn't broke, don't fix it" and MotoGP is truly one of those
games such as EA's Fifa 08 because it's already almost perfect. MotoGP
also contains a variety of gameplay modes from Championship to Time
Trials, allowing for a wide myriad of racing styles.
Probably the most
distinct change to the franchise is the addition of skill points in the
Champion Mode that allows the player to allocate points to speed,
acceleration, braking and cornering. This RPG aspect of MotoGP 07 gives
the gamer a variety of different options, ensuring added longevity to
the title and improved gameplay. Fortunately these points can be
redistributed throughout the game which allows you to tweak your racing
options throughout the game. For those unsure on the control systems of
the title, MotoGP 07 also features a tutorial teaching you the basics of
the game and riding skills.
The control system of MotoGP 07 is quite apt with the XBox 360
controller which is perfectly mapped and allows for a variety of
different accuracy settings. For instance, the left stick controls the
balance of your rider and pushing left or right, it will steer your
motorbike. You can even move your character up and down which allows for
reduced wind resistance, depending on the track.
Other tweaks to the
control system is that the shoulder buttons are used for your front and
rear brakes that easily makes this title one of the most accurate to
date. Although it may sound a little complex, the control system of
MotoGP is handled quite well in this game and may take the more
inexperienced gamers a little while to master but it's definitely worth
the practice.
Although MotoGP 07 is a great single-player
experience, the title features some brilliant online support thanks to
XBox Live. Whether your playing against players from around the world or
challenging the titles AI racers, MotoGP is definitely the most
thrilling and entertaining excitement you'll get in a racing game.
Graphically, MotoGP 07 looks fantastic on the XBox 360 with detailed and
realistic bike and rider models that move with a real-world grace as
they zoom around the tracks. Even the small touches such as scuffs, tire
marks and oil marks on the road become more profound as you race. The
background environment of MotoGP 07 are a little dated when compared to
the great bike and rider details that are rather plain and uninspired.
Hopefully in the next incarnation of the MotoGP series, the developers
can work on creating more detailed background environments.
The sound effects of the game are well
implemented into the title that feature all the sounds you would expect
to hear at the MotoGP from the grunts of bike engines, skids and crowd
effects that go hand in hand with the gameplay and graphics. The in game
music of MotoGP is a little flat but it does suit the genre and its
background ambience assists in transporting you into this realistic
racing game.
In conclusion, MotoGP 07 features some great new additions to the
franchise with a new and improved control system plus the new RPG award
system for the riders. The graphics is a little bit of a downfall
because the background environments are too plain and look more like an
XBox game rather than a 360 game. Needless to say, MotoGP 07 is still
the best motorbike game out at the moment and is recommended to all
those gamers who love bikes. Good stuff! |
