Full Review

3 January 2004 - Does Moto GP 2 on the Xbox grow the motorcycle-racing genre to new levels or it is just a clone of the now rather old PC version? We put on our crash helmet and give the game a spin. Bike racing in computer games is the equivalent of bike racing in real life. It's great fun but you don't have much choice in what you watch or play. The Moto GP series is one such series that is carrying the flag for motorbike racing fans.

And carry it, it should, for the game offers everything that the motorcycle fan could want. Quick race, Career, Stunt and Time Trials are all there to challenge you and the Career Mode features practice and qualifying events before the full race. Everything is customisable and as realistic as possible and the port to the Xbox has been inkeeping with the PC version.

Stunt mode as the name suggests involves wheelies and the like and you are awarded points for not only putting in a good lap, but also how many stunts you can pull at the same time.

THQ hasn't really done much to the graphics on this one compared to the PC version however the blurring effect as you get faster certainly gives you a sense of speed. While online players will be pleased to see that this game does support connect to the Xbox Live Service.

VERDICT
With such a narrow market to please Moto GP 2 does a good job at the task in hand; ie offer a racing game that doesn't involve formula one cars or Porsche Boxers. The gameplay is easy to get to grips with and the other drivers offer enough of a challenge to keep you on your toes without getting frustrated. The frustration does come with the challenge of riding a bike in the first place. This is not the fault of the game in any way and unlike car racing the added dimension of being able to fall off rather than bump your way around the course will appeal to those looking for that extra challenge. Great if you a bike junkie else you might find interest waning.