Tuesday, August 5

Eric Carter Reviews Downhill Domination

By Scott Steinberg
EXPN.com

Death by spandex - not an appealing thought. Don't tell Sony. It's the premise behind Downhill Domination, their latest sleeper hit for PlayStation 2. Odd as it is, the concept flies: for athletes and avowed gamers like four-time BMX World Champion Eric Carter, risking life and limb in pursuit of virtual glory is the ultimate high.

"The experience is incredible!" raves our resident racing expert. "It strikes just the right balance of fun and realism. Like the Tony Hawk series, this product conveys the feeling of the sport much better than any of the previous titles released in this genre."

BMX World Champ Eric Carter is as good in the game as he is in real life ... maybe even better.

Never mind that we're uncertain which true-life pastime he's referring to, considering the experience involves rocketing down 27 global courses at speeds that'd shame a supersonic jet. Beyond featured pros like Brian Lopes, Tara Llanes and Richie Schley, and authentic part upgrades, reality simply doesn't feature into the equation.

Then again, who knows: perhaps your resident riders' club allows for levying punches, kicks and hip checks against opponents. Or, for that matter, considers leaping over yawning chasms, slamming into grizzly bears and speeding through raging thunderstorms par for the course.

"I wouldn't recommend trying it during an actual race," says Carter. "You'd be disqualified ... and probably get beat up at the finish line." As should be obvious, Downhill Domination favors fun over fanatical attention to detail.

Carter sees nothing wrong with such embellishment. "To reach the status of pro athlete, you have to be competitive," he advises. "Conquering a game with so much to do and unlock is good training. I also think the hand-eye coordination lends itself to improving mental skills - at least that's what I tell my wife."

When Eric sits down at his PS2, who do you think he's playing as? Himself ... every time.

At least some concessions were made to die-hard enthusiasts, though. "The development team consulted with me on physics, portraying the rider's position on the bike and getting the general feel right," explains the cycling sensation. "I also gave a lot of input into course designs."

Which, in retrospect, may explain why the program performs so admirably. While goofy by nature, its frenetic gameplay, haphazard weather conditions, energetic punk/hip-hop soundtrack and stunning visuals should grab even skeptics by the seat of their skintight pants. Boasting five top-notch multiplayer modes with support for four simultaneous participants in addition to a stunning solo outing, it's an ideal diversion for both casual and determined action sports fans alike.

Hardcore gamers will especially appreciate the comprehensive trick system, which includes over 30 different moves on its roster. Suggests Carter, "If you keep stunts dialed in, you can go so much faster during races. It keeps your energy meter full and upgrades combat abilities, so kids - learn your tricks."

That said, remember to enjoy the game responsibly ... don't try recreating it at home. Says Carter, "I'm a professional ... these types of antics don't phase me. But if you took someone off the street and put them in this situation? You'd have some very hurt people."

Game Grades

Overall grade: A-

Gameplay: A

Graphics: B+

Soundtrack: B+