Atari User


BMX Simulator

Categories: Review: Software
Author: Rob Anthony
Publisher: Codemasters
Machine: Atari 400/800/600XL/800XL/130XE

 
Published in Atari User #23

BMX Simulator

This is another action-packed game involving healthy competition against the computer or a friend.

The title is a little misleading - it's not a true simulator since the view is from above, but that shouldn't detract from what is a fairly good game at the price.

Your task is to race your BMX bike round a track, avoiding various obstacles. There are seven different courses, each more difficult than the last, and with less time allowed to complete each race.

BMX Simulator

A steady hand and a level head are needed here. The courses can be learnt gradually over a period of time, so even the worst games player sees a marked improvement as he plays.

Richard Darling, author of the Commodore 64 original, has also incorporated an action replay feature, complete with slow motion, which is unique for a game of this type.

The graphics aren't bad, but I have seen better. The courses are appropriately laid out, and the "Burms", as they're called, slow you down on the way up and help you speed up and turn on the way down.

BMX Simulator

There are ramps and rough ground to traverse, and obstacles which stop you getting back on the course if you wander off line.

As the view is from above, the bikes appear quite small, but if you crash the rider flies over the handlebars and bike and rider are revealed quite realistically.

The music, written by David Whittaker, is catchy and pleasant, and includes a short fanfare at the end of each round. Sound effects include pedalling and thuds as you crash.

If you're a BMX fanatic, or prefer racing to spaceing, then this game is right up your street - and it's cheap enough to buy without leaving too great a dent in your pocket money.

Rob Anthony

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