MX vs. ATV: Reflex kick-starts the series in a new direction. Gone are the days of over-powered steering and unrealistic jumps, this time round, Reflex sets the stage for a more simulated off-road experience, but is it one worth getting dirty for?
As the title suggests, players have the ability to ride either motocross bikes or all-terrain vehicles (quad-bikes), but this couldn’t be more far from the truth, as racing trucks, buggies and off-road sprint cars are thrown into the mix; with many more being unlocked along the way. There is a large variety of vehicles at the player’s disposal, as well as a wealth of game modes and events. Reflex offers players the chance to jump into supercross races, challenge objectives and freestyle events with extreme ease.
The supercross races vary in setting, but they all include sharp turns and big jumps. The challenge mode throws players into a large area with objective icons scattered through the level which can be activated to begin a challenge. The challenges usually involve players jumping through targets, getting to a way point in a certain time or winning short races. They’re a nice addition and give the player an opportunity to unlock some new gear and rides. The freestyle events take place in large open arenas or areas that require the player to pull off big tricks in exchange for big points. The trick system has been tweaked to allow the analog sticks to be used to pull big moves. It’s difficult at first, but laying down a backflip heart-attack more than makes up for it.
As with the trick system, the analog sticks play a pivotal role within Reflex. During races and challenges, players will need to utilize their body weight to handle those sharper turns. While the left analog controls the steering and normal movement, the right analog will distribute the rider’s weight in the given direction. This adds a certain degree of simulation as players must navigate and throw their weight around tracks in order to get around the fastest.
Ironically, sometimes mud and dirt can be the best looking thing in a game, and Reflex proves this notion. The graphics are quite impressive with detailed rider models and bikes. But the real highlight is the actual tracks you race on. The mud and environmental effects give the game that little bit of visual magic, while impressive track deformation causes the track to shift and change throughout races, which adds some variation, and a bit of difficulty.
MX vs ATV: Reflex is a very strong off-road racing game that will benefit players looking for some unadulterated fun, rather than a deep racing experience. The new control scheme and weight distribution adds some much needed depth to the series, while a great presentation and a rocking soundtrack adds to the overall atmosphere. Reflex also really shines when playing with a friend as it supports split-screen multiplayer. So if you’re looking to get dirty and for something outrageous, give Reflex a try.
[starreviewmulti id=2 tpl=20]
