REVIEW – In relation to the sudden and shocking death of the young Hungarian motocross champion, Szvoboda Bence, we revisit this motocross simulator racing game born in the 2000s, developed under the umbrella of the Italian Milestone, which has provided official motor races for more than a decade. Our present aim was not merely to create a simple test (after all, the game was released two years ago) but to provide insight into this simulator – and its examination – on how much effort, technical knowledge, and how life-threatening the sport of motocross can be, even from the safety and comfort of video games, we may find it extremely challenging to control.

MXGP 2021 is the latest episode of the famous motocross series, which is the official video game of the FIM Motocross World Championship. The game welcomes players with 19 racing tracks, 32 teams, and over 100 pilots, where they can test their skills in MXGP and MX2 categories. The gameplay experience is realistic and full of challenges, and the graphics are pleasant. But the question arises: is this enough for MXGP 2021 to stand out among other motor games? Thus, we dedicate our test to the memory of Szvoboda Bence, who tragically lost his life in a training accident. Bence was the only Hungarian competitor who participated in the FIM Motocross World Championship and scored points multiple times in the MX2 category. Unfortunately, he could not compete in 2021, but he will always remain a role model for motocross fans.

Motocross is a sport that requires not only physical strength and dexterity but also courage and endurance. Competitors must contend not only with each other but also with the terrain conditions while zigzagging on the ground and… in the atmosphere, wrestling at speeds of 70 km/h. The aim of MXGP 2021 is to pass on this exciting and challenging experience to the players, who can choose between different weather and daytime conditions, and types of soil. The racing tracks in the game accurately depict the venues of this year’s World Championship, such as Russia, Great Britain, or Indonesia. The tracks are diverse, spectacular, but not easy to maneuver on. The game’s physics engine takes into account the weight of the motorcycle, the wear and tear of the tires, and the condition of the terrain, so every turn and jumper requires increased attention to how we brake, accelerate, or at what angle we tilt the motorbike.

Career Mode – The path to the MXGP championship title

The cornerstone of the gameplay experience is career mode, where we can create and control our own racer’s story at every stage of the World Championship. During career mode, we have the opportunity to join an already operating team or even establish our own. In both cases, the management we control plays a key role, their tasks include acquiring sponsors, managing finances, and developing the motorcycle.

During the development of the motor, we can replace or fine-tune different parts, which affect performance and controllability. The money and points necessary for development can be earned by our results and by completing challenges. In addition to career mode, of course, other game modes are also available, such as quick race, championship, champions’ challenge, or online mode. In online mode, up to 12 players can compare their skills with each other, or even organize their own championship.

Decent visuals, boring music

The graphical presentation of MXGP 2021 is sophisticated, with finely detailed riders and racing machines, and tracks that authentically reflect the atmosphere of real-world locations. The play of shadows and lights, dust clouds, and splashes of mud all contribute to the game’s realistic atmosphere. The PlayStation 5 version utilizes the full power of the console, running the game at a 4K resolution and 60 fps speed.

The audio effects feel authentic, the roar of the engines and cheering from the crowd effectively convey the excitement of the races. However, the background music mostly serves as filler and isn’t particularly memorable. The game is accompanied by an English-speaking narrator who provides rather cliche and dull commentary on the events. Regrettably, the game does not have Hungarian voice-over or subtitles.

With the support of the DualSense controller, players can experience the sensation of the motorcycle’s movements and reactions, with the intensity of the vibrations depending on the type of terrain and the degree of acceleration or braking. The use of the triggers becomes more difficult when the engine overheats or drains. These elements enhance the game’s realism and the feeling of excitement.

Well-crafted but not perfect MXGP experience

In summary, MXGP 2021 is an entertaining and challenging game that faithfully reproduces the thrills of the motocross world championship. The graphics, the physics engine, and the varied tracks all contribute to the experience. The game’s greatest strength is the career mode, which allows you to fully immerse yourself in the world of motocross. However, the music and some gameplay elements still need further refinement. If you’re a motocross enthusiast, this game is definitely worth a try. If you’re just starting to explore this sport, MXGP 2021 could be an excellent opportunity to get a glimpse into the world of motocross.

-BadSector-

Publisher: Milestone

Developer: Milestone

Style: Motocross simulator

Release: November 30, 2021.