Welcome to the world of MX vs. ATV Supercross Encore, a game that's about as intense as a snail race on a Sunday afternoon-the kind you wouldn't want to miss, unless you had a choice. In this fifth outing of the franchise, Rainbow Studios brings us back to the adrenaline-pumping world of supercross, dirt bikes, and ATVs-where the term 'off-road' takes on a whole new meaning, often resembling 'slightly off the pavement.'
So what's the deal with the gameplay? If you've ever dreamt of flying through the air on a dirt bike looking like a heroic action figure or simply wish you could ignore gravity for a while, MX vs. ATV Supercross Encore has you covered. Players can take a ride on a variety of motocross bikes or ATVs, tackling treacherous supercross tracks that feature more twists and turns than a soap opera plot. The game boasts a career mode filled with five glorious series: 250 East, 250 West, 450 MX, 450 ATV, and the thrilling 450 MX vs. ATV. Did I mention there are over 80 legendary motocross companies to choose from? If only font shopping were that easy in real life. The physics can be entertaining. The game introduces a new 'pre-load' mechanic-essentially a fancy way of saying 'lean back when you jump.' Fail to master it, and you might end up face-planting, which-let's admit-could be the highlight of some players' careers. When it comes to multiplayer, Supercross Encore delivers a decent experience. You can race against eleven other players or engage in split-screen action with a friend. But let's face it, whether it's with friends or foes, everyone ends up having an epic battle to see who can crash the hardest-and what better way to strengthen friendships than by leveling up the amount of hate you have for each other? The game does provide a bit of variety in races, which keeps things enjoyable, as long as you don't take it too seriously. Because, let's be real, who would potentially set up a rival real-life motocross tournament? Oh wait, that's just an episode of MTV's Ridiculousness waiting to happen.
Now, about the graphics. Oh, dear. While some aspects shine-like models that occasionally look like they could actually occupy a racetrack-others feel like they were stylized with a generous dose of mediocrity. Imagine if your mom colored outside the lines while trying to help you with your art project. The scenery can be beautiful one second, then resemble a toddler's crayon drawing the next. Frame rates tend to dip in moments of high activity too. Not ideal if you're trying to pull off a legal backflip. Overall, the graphics feel a bit... well, tired. Like the new hire at the office who still hasn't figured out where the coffee pot is-half-baked and unsure.
In conclusion, MX vs. ATV Supercross Encore offers a racing experience that can both amuse and frustrate, much like dating in 2023. It's not going to rewrite any history books, nor will it be the favorite title of your gamer friends who are always up for a good brawl. But if you're someone who enjoys dirt bikes and ATVs but isn't looking to be amazed-well, grab your cookies and settle in; this title is perfect for you. It's a game that, in essence, serves its purpose: you can race, crash, and experience the thrill of virtual motocross without shedding too many tears over it. Just don't expect it to be the blockbuster of the year, and you should come away with some decent fun, even if it's often in the form of hilarious mishaps. Thus, the game lands with a lighthearted but sturdy score of 5/10-because sometimes, just riding the wave of mediocrity is enough.