Everyone answers to someone, and we here at Focus answer to you, the readers!
We’ve gotten a handful of messages asking why we don’t do many music or game reviews in the mag or online. So rather then get into that whole explanation we’ll just give you what you want… Better late than never, and without further ado, let’s talk video games.
Skateboarding video games can be real hit or miss propositions. Shaun White skateboarding may have seemed like an attempt by White to cash in on his snowboarding success, but the reality is that he is a professional boarder. Unfortunately, unless you are a diehard White fan, this game probably isn’t for you.
The storyline of this game is that you are essentially an anarchist in a world that is a little too strict and literally monochromatic. Your objective is to go through the world and influence both the people around you and the environment to make the world a more colorful place, both literally and figuratively.
To accomplish this you will need to accomplish a series of tasks and compete in series of contests that require you to pull off moves and build up experience points. As you go along, you gain influence over others and the environment around you literally starts to become colorful.
The big plus to this game is that there is a lot to do and a lot of objectives with which to accomplish. The big minus to this game is that a lot of the game play turns out to be somewhat repetitive. Another big downside is that if you bought this game to specifically play as Shaun White, you will have to wait until you get through the game the first time as your ability to play him is limited.
Also, the realism factor is somewhat lost. If you mess up and expect to see a massive Shaun White face plant, you are going to be somewhat disappointed. The rating may be teen, but the characters are apparently made of the same stuff they used to make the Power Rangers’ outfits as nothing seems to hurt you, except water.
If you’re a huge fan of Shaun White or like games that keep you occupied, then this is a good title for you. Those of you wanting realistic game play may want to keep looking for another title.
Personally, I’d take TC Surf Designs or Skate or Die on NES any day of the week over any of these skating games today, but then again I’m slow and old. I like to, “Keep it simple, stupid.”