BMX XXX Review

7.0

Format PlayStation 2

Developer Z-axis

Publisher Acclaim

Genre Sports, Action

Getting their 128-bits out for the lads

If DOA Volleyball is gaming's softcore Channel 5 movie, BMX XXX is the hardcore porno. Swearing, sex and violence might not be clever in your mum's book, but they tend to sell a lot of videogames, especially when rolled into one. Cue BMX XXX.
As the name suggests, XXX is a rude game. From a pimp who screams, "I'm a bitch-slap yo' ass!" when you knock him over to a constipated builder who needs his portaloo shaken, it's mostly very funny and has been woven surprisingly well into the gameplay. You can even win live-action strip videos by completing certain challenges.

SCRAPPY DAPPY-DOO
Z-Axis has gone down the Hawk route with challenges picked up from characters scattered round levels, and completing one usually unlocks another. Collect cans in one level and a tramp sells them, scores drugs and starts a fire that you then help the fire brigade put out. If they're not on strike, that is.
Levels are free-roaming and you can still rack up points by pulling off tricks, but ultimately progress in the main Hardcore Tour mode is pretty linear, though that's not a big problem. Levels themselves are smaller than in Hawk's 4, but are designed well with loads of furniture to trick off, while the gritty style seems apt.
What are a pain though are the controls, which aren't as responsive as you'd expect, making some timed tasks excessively tough. XXX is also blocky-looking. Which is fine for buildings and vehicles, but not when it makes muscular characters look anorexic. Animations feel unfinished too, with spills making your character bounce like he's got rubber bones.
Even so, with lots to unlock, multiplayer and create-a-rider modes, and some good levels, XXX is worth a look if you've exhausted your other extreme sports games.

Jimmy Francis