Amped 2 Impressions

Microsoft recently gave us a look at an updated build of Amped 2, the sequel to the Xbox launch game. The game has actually made some strides since we last saw it at E3 this past May. We got a look at a redone version of one of the levels shown off at E3 and tried our hand at one of the new modes in the game. While the game is still coming together, we were pleased by what we saw.

The most notable new element in the build we saw was the addition of the new snowskate option, which marks the first appearance of the sport in a game. The sport is a cross between standard skateboarding and snowboarding, and it adds an entirely new dynamic to the game. For example, when you perform kickflips, you'll have to be certain you grab your board--otherwise, it will fly off your feet. The trick system has also seen some work and offers a greater variety of options such as lip stalls and a Tony Hawk-style manual called a "butter" that lets you link your tricks for massive points. The Millicent track from the E3 demo is now set at night and looks quite good.

You'll find plenty of modes to explore in the game, ranging from a collection single-player modes to split-screen and online multiplayer modes. The standard single-player career mode features an assortment of game types to test your skills and force you to improve your game. Amped 2's split-screen multiplayer modes will be supplemented by Xbox Live support for up to eight people. The Xbox Live features will offer the standard array of match options and voice masks we've come to expect from Live-enabled games. The game is also slated to support Microsoft's upcoming XSN Sports network, which will allow you to participate in your own leagues, set up your own competitions, and have your performance tracked on worldwide ladder rankings, among other things.

The graphics in the game are looking quite sharp. The environments are impressively large and sport a good assortment of Xbox-brand special effects. The assorted international locales are complemented by lighting and weather effects that do a fine job of setting the tone for the courses. The character models look good, thanks to a generous polygon count and little touches such as the ability to customize their look. The game's presentation gets a tasty boost thanks to the inclusion of HDTV support for 720p resolution.

The game's audio is a mix of roughly 300 music tracks from a broad spectrum of artists, ambient noise, and chatter from the various characters on the slopes. You'll be able to beef up the meaty soundtrack with tunes of your own choosing, thanks to the ability to import your own tunes into the game. The whole package is nicely tied up by Dolby support, which should please those with home-entertainment centers.

From what we've seen so far, Amped 2 is shaping up to be a distinct improvement on its predecessor. The game's improved graphics, refined gameplay, and new modes are solid additions to the core gameplay. The addition of Xbox Live is just icing on the cake. Amped 2 is currently slated to ship this fall for the Xbox. Look for more on the game in the coming months.