MotorStorm (Playstation 3, 2007)

Motorstorm is an exciting and fast paced off-road racing game exclusively for the Playstation 3. This game features nice graphics, fun gameplay, and competitive courses.

The game is set in the Desert at a made up festival. You race several types of vehicles in this game. From dirtbikes and ATVs, through buggies, onto cars and trucks and really large trucks (and semi-trucks as well) , there are plenty of options Each race is set up by a "Card." The more cards you defeat, the more races open up to you. Therein lies the first problem with the game. It lacks a quick play option. There is also no dual screen multiplayer. This game has several courses which are fun (and using different vehicles on them makes them unique as well), and some feature mud, others more dust, and all feature exciting races.

The races themselves are dramatic affairs. You race at high speeds utilizing an accelerator and a boost method. Your boost is temporary, and if it is overloaded, your vehicle will explode. If you crash into other vehicles, parts will fly off, and along the way your vehicle will garner more dust and mud. Crashes are spectacular affairs, as they spray metal all over, oftentimes involve many vehicles, and even drivers go flying from the smaller vehicles.

This game features excellent graphics, a loud soundtrack, and spectacular fun. However, it lacks some depth (with online updates this game gets better), and the lack of a quickplay option is also a problem. Also one must note that the loading times are long for this title. So grab popcorn while waiting to play.

Graphics: Spectacular, and the physics in the game are also well done.
Sound: A VERY loud game by default. The music is good for racing, and the explosion sounds are also good.
Gameplay: The gameplay in this game is the best part. If you own a PS3, download the demo to get a small taste of the fast paced action.
Presentation: This game lacks in some basic features, and has a long loading time as well.
Replay Value: High, with online multiplayer, as well as more options for expansions to the game.

Overall: A 4 out of 5 rating. A good game, but its sequel, coming this year, should surpass it in every aspect. Still, a bargain if you can find it for 30 dollars.