SSX 3

SSX 3 Description

Electronics Arts' SSX was unarguably a huge success, a great launch title for PlayStation 2 and a real coup for one of the world's biggest software houses. It paved the way for a sequel and quickly spread to other platforms. More than a year on from SSX Tricky's GameCube release, the third instalment is ready for Nintendo's little box of loveliness. Taking place at a brand new boarding location, players will now be given the freedom to compete, roam and even explore an open mountain, littered with trick venues, rail parks, race courses and half-pipes. Trick venues are an ideal means to showcase your new-found boarding skills and exploit SSX 3's expanded library of moves. There is an improved selection of Uber Tricks, and a revised combo system means players can link their moves together for as long as an entire run if they wish. Definitely inspired by Tony Hawk's Pro Skater, but a welcome addition nonetheless. The same applies to half-pipe boarding and rail parks, but at the heart of SSX 3 are the downhill racecourses. And it's here where you'll notice the visual improvements of EA's latest offering. In many respects, the game looks much more realistic, boasting convincing snow, gorgeous backdrops and superbly rendered characters. But it doesn't lose the light-hearted adolescent style that is common to most of EA's BIG-branded games. Like its predecessors, boarders have attitude and they compete aggressively. Be nice to your competition and they'll be nice in return. Conversely, get in their way and they'll make your virtual snowboarding career a misery. Six infamous boarders from the first two games make welcome appearances, together with four new rivals - Viggo, Nate, Griff and the feisty Allegra. Additional options include a variety of boarding events, a Freeride option and challenges. You are free to choose what you compete in and when, and successful runs will be rewarded with medals and trophies. You'll even be able to 'level up' and improve your character's abilities to stay competitive on the mountain. SSX quickly became one of EA's key franchises and it's really not hard to see why. It's enjoyable, arcade fun that anyone can pick up and enjoy.

Open Mountain Environment: Get dropped onto the lower peak of the biggest mountain you've ever seen. You'll seamlessly board from one awesome area to the next - entering competitions, taking on Big Challenges, and discovering hidden collectables. Master the Challenges on all three peaks in your quest to Conquer the Mountain... and make it your own.

Characters: SSX3 has four new rivals joining six returning SSX Tricky characters. Mac, Elise, Zoe, Moby, Psymon, and Kaori are back. They are joined by the crazy Swede Viggo, mountain man Nate, 12 year old phenom Griff, and the ultra hot, ultra talented Allegra.

Rich, Natural Graphics: SSX3 boasts amazing graphics like incredibly detailed shadows and snow that sparkles, reflects light, and even blows in the wind. These are just some of the rich environmental details created by an Oscar nominated, Hollywood visual effects wiz. The amazing visuals will come together to totally immerse the user in the SSX3 world.

More Tricks: The tricks are completely blown out in SSX3. There is a collection of new Uber Tricks where users can combo and hold. Not only will SSX3 have the addition of specific Uber tricks on rails, users will even be able to perform hand plants. With the new board press tricks, gamers can extend a combo string - forever!

Soundtrack: An adrenaline charged soundtrack that promises to be one of the game industry's best yet - featuring a braod range of music from such artists as the Chemical Bros., the Executioners, the Red Hot Chili Peppers - and many more.

Play How You Want: With SSX3, users will be able to choose how they play - and how they progress. Users will have the option of competing in a variety of events (Race, Big Air, Slope Style, and Super Pipe) or at the last minute opting to take off and freeride.

Big Challenges: Take on any number of unique challenges as you explore the extent of the mountain world. Grind billboards, board press logs, even hand plant the fence line. There are over 100 challenges that will have you trying again and again.

Customization and Rewards: SSX3 has also expanded the character customization and rewards system. You'll earn medals and trophies to fill up your trophy room, level up your riders' abilities through a deeper attribute system, and even rename the peaks as you master them. Along with characters being fully customizable (including over the top cheats to equip them with) you can customize your personal play list - and much more.