When the very first SSX game was released, it was an absolute game- changer (please pardon the pun), scoring an overall rating of over 90% by the critics. Nearly every SSX game after that continued to defy expectations, helping to expand the limitations of game programming time and again . . . until SSX Blur came along on the Nintendo Wii, with awful graphics; a grating, forgettable soundtrack (which was especially bad since SSX is known for having a great music); bad controls; and a difficulty level that would challenge only the youngest of players (and that's comparing it to the extremely easy races in SSX3, which still has amazing track design). It looked as though SSX was going out on a sour note, much to the disappointment of the millions of fans. Five years later, a revolutionary game is released that even goes so far as to include actual mountain terrain from images taken from NASA satellites. Gameplay is reimagined entirely, introducing a new survival mechanic that really tests a player's skills, adding gear like wing suits and headlamps to aid in the player's conquest of every major mountain in the world. New characters are introduced and old favorites continue their story of perseverance and strength. Aside from a few minor quirks, like a slow frame rate at extremely rare intervals and not having any local multiplayer and having an easy starting campaign, this is an almost perfect game that is only made better by the constant challenge offered by competing online Friends. The main complaints I often hear about this game could basically be summed up as this: "It isn't SSX3." SSX3 was a fantastic game during its time, to be sure, but as it's aged, certain problems have been brought to light as I play it. Video game series need to expand and grow in order to stay relevant, and SSX 2012 does just that-- improving on what is already the greatest snowboarding series to date in almost every way, both in terms of content and control. If you hear bad things about it, just ignore those complaints and pick up a copy for the PS3 and Xbox 360 on Amazon or download it. As you explore the open mountain ranges and take in the breathtaking vistas, you'll be very glad you did.
