Remember that time you dressed up as a snowboarder for Halloween, and you had to play it off like you actually know how to shred? 'Mark McMorris Infinite Air' is your opportunity to prove it - sort of. This game combines the winter wonderland of snowboarding with the technicality of simulation, bundled together with the charm of a bro who always comes back for seconds (we're looking at you, Mark McMorris).
'Mark McMorris Infinite Air' throws you into a world of soft snow and drop-dead gorgeous mountains, where you get to perform tricks that range from 'I just fell off my couch' to 'Dude, did you see that?!'. Forget button-mashing: here, you'll be working your analog sticks like they owe you money. Left for carving, right for flipping and spinning, and triggers for grabs. At first, it feels like playing Twister, except instead of getting tangled with your friends, you're falling face-first into a snowbank every five seconds. The game also features procedurally generated courses and level editors, which means every snow day can lead to fresh thrills. Want to create a half-pipe that sweeps right into your mom's backyard? Go for it! Just remember to keep her plants safe while you're at it. Plus, the game's social features mean you can share your masterpieces with others online. Because what's better than showing off your digital snowboarding skills to a bunch of strangers?
'Mark McMorris Infinite Air' runs on the Unity engine, and while the game has its peaks and valleys, the visuals are quite scenic. The landscapes are stunning, with snowcapped mountains that could make even the Grinch feel all warm and fuzzy inside. The character models don't quite reach their potential, kind of like that one kid in school who never got picked for the team, but they hold up just fine as you spectacularly plummet down a slope. Ski-resort aesthetics are present but not overwhelming, making it easy for players to get lost in the tranquillity - until they remember they're not pro snowboarders and faceplant on their next jump.
'Mark McMorris Infinite Air' is an ambitious leap into the snowboarding genre that tries to prioritize realism over every other '90s arcade vibe. With engaging gameplay mechanics that will make you feel every ounce of that digital snow time and procedurally generated worlds that ensure no two rides are the same, it has its appeal. However, be prepared for a steep learning curve - or just embrace the face plants as an integral part of the experience. For hard-core snowboarding enthusiasts, it might just scratch that itch. But if you were looking for a casual ride on easy mode, you might as well start making snow cones instead.