PlayStation

Cool Boarders 2

The original game was okay but I soon became bored with racing the same tracks over and over again. Cool Boarders 2 oozes quality and offers so much in terms of gameplay that I can heartily recommend this titles for all gamers who enjoy a racing challenge.

What a difference a year makes. I commend the developers for not throwing the same crap out and slapping a 2 at the end of the name. This game fixes a majority of my complaints with the original (other than the commentator) and adds a bounty of new goodies. If the original did not impress you, I suggest you give this one a try. I think you may find it more to your liking. If you got into the first one, you will be in snowboarding heaven with number 2.

With its many modes of play and dozens of moves to master, Cool Boarders 2 is much better than the original. The simplicity of the Halfpipe mode alone is extremely addicting and offers hours of challenging "drops." Even if you dislike racing games or wince at the word "extreme," Cool Boarders 2 is recommended, especially to fans of other combo-driven gaming styles.

Despite the improved visuals however, there are still far too many unsightly seams. The split-screen mode divides the screen down the center, and while it's certainly playable, the fact that you're only racing against one opponent means you'll rarely see anyone else on the course. Cool Boarders 2 was a major step up for the franchise, but the best was yet to come.