Namco's
PlayStation 2 version of the arcade smash Alpine
Racer gives you nine different courses to test your downhill skiing and
snowboarding skills, all of which use satellite data to faithfully recreate actual courses
from the Alps.
As you hurl yourself off near-vertical drops and lean at seemingly-impossible angles into
yet another sharply-cambered bend, with the safety netting flapping in the periphery of
your vision, you may just about find time to recognise the runs from the arcade original -
as well as many more, created specially for this version. And if that's not enough,
there's also a mind-blowing, futuristic man-made course to really test your abilities.
Each course is packed with trackside objects and obstacles that can help or hinder your
progress, and you'll even find that weather conditions vary from one run to the next, from
clear, bright sunshine to biting blizzards and even the occasional plume of snow from an
avalanche.
You'll need all your concentration as you hurtle downhill at blistering speeds, trying to
pick the right racing lines and master the bends and jumps; but you'll be pleased to know
there's a context sensitive commentary to let you know exactly how well you're doing.
There are eight different characters to choose from, each of which has a unique mix of
attributes and abilities. As you progress through the game, you can customise your
character, buying better, faster skis and even snowboards and ski-boards with money you
win from each race.
The five different game modes - including a season-style cup competition, Cross Racing, 1
on 1 challenges, slalom races and the traditional Time Attack mode - offer a number of
different challenges that will keep you coming back for one more adrenaline-fuelled run.
And with its unmatched sense of speed, Alpine
Racer has all the fun of hurtling down the piste - without the risk of ending
up with a kneecap where your hip should be.
Price:
£39.99 for PS2.
Thanks to
Games Press for the info.
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