For those craving adrenaline-pumping action and a taste of winter sports, “Infinite Air” might just be your ticket to virtual glory. Developed by Sumo Digital and published by Sega, this game takes snowboarding to a whole new level, offering a unique blend of arcade thrills and simulation depth. Released in 2011 for Playstation 3 and Xbox 360, “Infinite Air” focuses on delivering an experience that’s both accessible and challenging, catering to both casual players looking for fun and seasoned snowboarders seeking technical mastery.
The game’s premise is simple: conquer a series of mountains, each with its own unique terrain and challenges, while pulling off spectacular tricks and grinding your way to the top of the leaderboards. But don’t let the simplicity fool you; “Infinite Air” boasts a surprisingly deep system of trick execution, requiring precise timing and button combinations to nail those jaw-dropping aerial maneuvers.
Carving Your Own Path: Gameplay Mechanics and Features
One of the defining features of “Infinite Air” is its control scheme, designed to mimic the natural flow of snowboarding. The left analog stick controls your board’s direction while the right stick handles your stance and spins. Trigger buttons are used for grabs and ollies, adding another layer of complexity to trick execution. Mastering this system takes time and practice, but the feeling of landing a perfectly executed 1080° backside rodeo is truly exhilarating.
The game features a variety of mountains to explore, each with its own distinct personality and challenges. From the gentle slopes of Mount Seymour to the gnarly peaks of Whistler Blackcomb, there’s something for every snowboarding style.
Mountain | Difficulty | Terrain Type |
---|---|---|
Mount Seymour | Beginner | Wide open slopes, gentle trails |
Big White | Intermediate | Steeper runs, moguls, some jumps |
Revelstoke | Advanced | Backcountry terrain, cliffs, expert-level features |
Whistler Blackcomb | Expert | Extreme slopes, challenging park features, legendary back bowls |
Beyond the core gameplay, “Infinite Air” offers a wealth of customization options. Players can unlock new boards, boots, and clothing as they progress through the game, allowing them to personalize their virtual rider’s look. The soundtrack, featuring a mix of electronica, hip-hop, and rock, adds to the game’s energetic atmosphere.
The Verdict: A Refreshing Take on Snowboarding Games
While “Infinite Air” may not be the most realistic snowboarding simulation out there, it excels in delivering a fun and accessible experience for players of all skill levels. The intuitive controls, diverse mountain environments, and addictive trick system make it a game that’s easy to pick up but difficult to master.
If you’re looking for a snowboarding game that prioritizes style and excitement over pure realism, “Infinite Air” is definitely worth checking out. Just be prepared to spend countless hours honing your skills and perfecting those mind-blowing tricks – virtual bragging rights are at stake!