COOL BOARDERS 2001

Reviewed By: Martins
VOLUNTEER GUEST REVIEWER

GAME TECH INFO

Computer Platform: PlayStation II (Sony)
Produced by: Sony
Price Range: $21-30
Learning curve time: under 30 mins.
Age level: All Ages
ESRB Rating: Everyone

Genre: Sports
Christian Rating: 5 of 5
   (nothing offensive)
Gameplay: 5 of 5
   (excellent)
Violence: 5 of 5
   (none)
Adult Content: 5 of 5
   (none)

"Cool Boarders 2001" is an excellent snow boarding game that includes a half pipe competition, trick park and downhill racing (including a funky race that has you dodging huge rubber balls and flying through caves). Each race can be run with 1 or 2 players and in competition mode or practice mode. There are also basic and advanced tutorials that walk you through many of the moves and tricks.

While we've not played any other snowboarding games (including "SSX Tricky"), the graphics and game play of this title are excellent. Any obstacles you hit (trees, poles, other riders) will knock you on your tush.

The halfpipe competition is pretty basic. You simply head down the pipe and trick it up. The downhill is a gated race against three other computer riders (in one player mode) where you have to make it to the finish line without missing more than 2 gates. Once you've missed the 3rd gate, your race is over.

Our favorite area is the trick park. It's a combination of quarter pipes, hills, jumps and rails that you are free to explore and ride however you like. Some of the rails are marked as combinations that require enough skill to make you come back for more but the jumps and other obstacles are easy enough to master to make the game fun from the first time you play.

The soundtrack is the only part of the game that could be considered offensive (rock 'n roll). However, for those who are offended or simply don't like it, the volume can be turned down or the music deselected from the tracks. (Use the “properties” screen).

We've made it a habit to rent any games we intend to buy to be sure that they will not be objectionable to our family. “Cool Boarders 2001” passes the test. It's a great game that our 8 and 10 year olds (and their dad) love to play. Recommended to anyone.

Year of Release—2001

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this Christian Spotlight review are those of the reviewer (both ratings and recommendations), and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Films for Christ or the Christian Answers Network.