|
MotoGP 4
Namco's MotoGP 4 is the latest instalment
in the series that continues the tradition of realism, speed, advanced
physics, authentic rider animations and multiple weather conditions for
a truly intense motorbike racing experience. If you believe the hype,
than MotoGP 4 is the definitive motorbike game for the PlayStation 2 but
unfortunately for gamers not much has changed since the last incarnation
but that doesn't mean that you should ignore this title.
MotoGP 4 features three different gameplay
segments that include arcade, career and simulation. Career and
simulation are almost one of the same but arcade is for those who just
want a pick up and play game. You won't get the most out of this game in
arcade, but it's fun for a quick bash with friends. The meat of the game
is found elsewhere in the simulation modes and this is where a huge
improvement seems to have been made. Obviously the main aim is to become
the MotoGP world champion in the quickest time possible, but the game
does this in a way different to others. With that said, the gameplay of
the title has vastly improved since its predecessors and the title makes
full use of the Sony DualShock controller.
Namco have also scored the official MotoGP
license and MotoGP 4 has all the teams, tracks and everything else that
you would find in this exciting racing experience. Although all
the usual tracks have been included , Namco have ensured to include the
brand new China track which made its debut in Formula 1 2004 but is now
also a MotoGP track. Nice work Namco!
The tracks within MotoGP 4 are planned out
well but do seem a bit bare when compared to the real world circuits in
terms of surrounding environments such as buildings and trees. The
animation within the game are very impressive with riders featuring
multiple crash animations as well as being able to have wheel to wheel
racing without collision detection issues.
Graphically, MotoGP 4 is a mixed bag that
features some extraordinary rider animation that is unfortunately let
down by the background environment of the game that almost looks like
the game is a five years old. Although the PlayStation 2 is soon to be
replaced by the PS3, the console still has a few more years left and I
think Namco may have sat on their laurels when it came to updating the
graphics engine.
The game also contains a thumping
soundtrack and some extremely realistic motorbike sound effects from the
roars of powerful engines to the sounds of crashes and riders sliding on
the bitumen. I must admit that the sound effects are virtually identical
as to watching a real race on television, especially when you are
looking at a replay or watching someone else play because in many games,
the sound is often forgotten about it.
In conclusion, MotoGP 4 is a slight
improvement from the last time we saw this game on the PlayStation 2
that features updated teams and new tracks but unfortunately the game is
let down by mediocre graphics that one could be mistaken in thinking
that they are playing a PSOne. Best rent before you buy!
 |
