Summary
- Release Year: 2003
- Genres: Racing, Sport
- Platforms: Nintendo GameCube, PlayStation 2, Xbox
- Developers: EA Canada
- Publishers: EA Sports BIG, Electronic Arts
SSX 3: The Ultimate All-Mountain Snowboarding Experience
Released in 2003, SSX 3 is the third installment in the popular SSX snowboarding franchise. Developed by EA Canada and published by EA Sports BIG, SSX 3 takes players to a vast open mountain where they can explore, compete, and discover hidden challenges.
One of the standout features of SSX 3 is its massive open world. Players are free to roam the mountain, discovering new areas, finding hidden collectibles, and taking on challenges. The mountain is divided into four main regions, each with its own unique terrain and challenges. Players can explore snow-covered forests, race down icy slopes, and grind rails in urban environments.
In addition to the open world, SSX 3 also features a variety of traditional snowboarding events, including races, slopestyle competitions, and big air events. Players can compete against AI opponents or friends in local multiplayer mode. SSX 3 also introduced a new gameplay mechanic called “Uber Moves,” which allow players to perform over-the-top tricks and earn bonus points.
SSX 3 also features a deep character customization system. Players can create their own snowboarder and choose from a variety of clothing, accessories, and boards. Players can also upgrade their character’s stats and abilities as they progress through the game.
The graphics in SSX 3 are impressive for the time, with detailed character models and realistic snow physics. The game also features a dynamic weather system that can change the conditions on the mountain, affecting gameplay.
The soundtrack in SSX 3 is also noteworthy, featuring a mix of electronic, rock, and hip-hop tracks from artists such as the X-Ecutioners, Felix Da Housecat, and Queens of the Stone Age.
Gameplay
SSX 3 is an arcade-style snowboarding game that is easy to pick up and play, but difficult to master. Players control their snowboarder from a third-person perspective, using the left analog stick to steer and the right analog stick to perform tricks.
The game features a variety of different tricks, including grabs, spins, and flips. Players can string together tricks to create combos, which earn them points. Players can also use the environment to perform tricks, such as grinding rails and jumping off cliffs.
SSX 3 also features a number of different gameplay modes, including:
- Race: Players race against AI opponents or friends to the finish line.
- Slopestyle: Players perform tricks on a variety of obstacles, such as rails, jumps, and boxes.
- Big Air: Players attempt to perform the biggest and most impressive tricks possible.
- Explore: Players explore the open mountain, discovering new areas and finding hidden collectibles.
Reception
SSX 3 was a critical and commercial success, selling over 2 million copies worldwide. The game was praised for its open world, innovative gameplay, and impressive graphics. SSX 3 was also nominated for several awards, including Game of the Year at the 2003 Spike Video Game Awards.
Legacy
SSX 3 is considered to be one of the best snowboarding games ever made. The game’s open world, innovative gameplay, and impressive graphics set a new standard for the genre. SSX 3 also helped to popularize snowboarding as a mainstream sport.
The SSX franchise has continued to release new games over the years, but none have been able to match the critical and commercial success of SSX 3. The game remains a fan favorite and is still played by many today.
Review Score
9/10
Art
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