SSX 3 (GameCube) Compare Prices

Game Review & 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.