After I finally managed to get the game operating due to some technical difficulties, I found a game racked with issues. The game offers you the opportunity to race in the four typical alpine events, downhill, super G, slalom, and giant slalom. To the race novice, some of these events have no discernible difference, which is problem number one. Another issue is that the various slopes all seem quite similar and repetitive which makes racing a bit monotonous. The terrain also doesn’t vary much in the slope conditions. You don’t see any real difference between icy conditions or a good fresh powder.

The major issue I had with the game is that the controls were rather unresponsive and made you really work way to hard to try to get a good line or set up a turn during your race. Games are supposed to be fun, not work and I found the lack of control frustrating and me sweating profusely as I tried to avoid shooting of course and into the protective fencing along the slope. The sloppy control setup has to be considered a major issue when they are so vital to any racing game.

Visually, aside from the lack luster racing environments, I did think that the detail given to the skiers was solid and that their movements reflected how real life racers move with the tucks and when the skiers try to regain balance and control on the hills. The sound was satisfactory as well. The sounds of the skis cutting into the icy slope were decent and the rush of sound as you pass the crowd was a nice touch.

With all the SSX type games that offer you amazing environments and racing features, I just do not believe this game really measures up. A true downhill racing fan might be able to salvage some fun from this game but I really think there is just so much more out there that would blow this game out of the water. If you are seeking a skiing game, you can do much better elsewhere with the wide variety of games that are offered. If you are still curious, then buyers beware as you should rent first before buying.