MotoGP 08

Another year passes and once again we sit, in anticipation, to play the latest 'Moto GP' licensed game offering. This year has seen a change in proceedings as publisher 'CAPCOM' take over from 'THQ'.

First things first then: improvements. Well, not only has the graphics been updated to perhaps produce one of the most impressive looking games on the system, but also the number of classes has cruised from 1 (MotoGP) to 3 (125cc and 250cc), including licensed teams, riders and tracks from the '08 season. CAPCOM have certainly brought their brand to the table and delivered. Alas, however, credentials are not the end all regarding a polished game. Gameplay, options, events, rewards all need to add together to provide an experience worth waiting for.

The gameplay is the first topic to mention. Vastly different from its predecessors (Moto GP Ultimate Racing, MotoGP 06), the gameplay withdraws from the simulation inspired racing module as CAPCOM takes the reigns of the racer in a way that no gamer agrees upon. Settings are included in-game including: advanced, simulation and arcade- all differing to varied degrees, although it can not be argued that the model has taken a step into the direction of an arcade racer. As I have said, it is difficult to appreciate other's feelings towards this step, however, I for one, have enjoyed the more laid back approach to the MotoGP gameplay style. No longer is it necessary to apply different amounts of pressure to front and back brakes, thus giving a superior, beneficial gameplay experience. The expected fall and trip over the grass and gravel is, as has always been, punished- perhaps even more so, moulding a firm hold into reality- all the better for it. The AI has also taken a firm overhaul, opponents no longer stick to 'racing rails' and instead are often seen 'biting the dust' as it were, in front of ones very eyes. The AI can be set to either one of four difficulties (Easy/Medium/Hard/Champion), offering a suitable opposing force to any wannabe racer.

The niggling doubts within my mind rely in the game's longevity. Game modes abound albeit in an add-on sort of fashion. Career is perhaps the most impressive where one starts in 125cc class and progresses from season to season, unlocking new team rides and upgrading your bike through the use of career points, simplistic yet effective. Other game modes include the usual time trial, quick race and championship.

Multiplayer is now exclusively limited to online. The lack of local multiplayer is frustrating, which not only could have strengthened its longevity, but also provided a great deal of that word, fun!

MotoGP 08 is an adequate racing experience with gorgeous visuals and gameplay to match, let down by its lack of local multiplayer and minimalist modes. Bring an open-mind to the proceedings, sit down, and enjoy.

Ok so I am not going to give you a MAHOOSIVE lo-down on this game, I'm sure you will find plenty of proffesional reviews online... I will give you my opinions on what is good and not so good on the game...

THE GOOD:
Good solid racing enjoyment.
Accuratley scaled tracks.
Accurate differences between bike performances which, realisticly DONT overpower other bikes so there is no "Ultimate Unbeatable Motocycle".
The inclusion of 125cc and 250cc bikes and races.
Lots of things to do - Lengthy Career with various customisation options such as amount of laps per race, weather etc, quick race mode, online mode, challege mode, time attack mode....

THE BAD:
The bike physics at some points are absolutley dreadful, honestly, I am appauled to be fair however this doesnt really affect the gameplay directly.
The simulation mode with championship A.I setting is brutally difficult, in my opinion but some would say this makes the game challenging.
The graphics seem bland with the exception of the bike and rider.

REASONS NOT TO BUY THE GAME:
If you are a graphics whore, you wont want to buy this game JUST for graphics.
If you want some challenging achivements as these are pretty easy, with the exception of the few Simulation and Champion achievments.

Overall...
I havent actually reviewed it, I just said some flaws and good things, but in my opinion, its a great game and if you love the MotoGP, this is YOUR game.... simple, 5 stars

Fantastic game, I have played this version instead of later ones since it came out, still thoroughly enjoy it, good graphics and riding feel is good in trickier game modes i.e. simulation model...