Status:
Complete and Play Tested
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MX vs ATV: Untamed (PS2) Review
🏍 Gameplay & Mechanics
MX vs ATV: Untamed blends off-road racing chaos with a broad range of vehicles, including motocross bikes, ATVs, monster trucks, and more. The physics engine leans toward an arcade style with some attempts at realism in terrain interaction and vehicle handling. The result is fast, fun, and occasionally unpredictable racing that rewards aggressive play and stunt execution.
The control scheme is responsive, though managing landings and cornering requires practice, especially with the more unruly vehicle classes. "Rhythm Racing" returns, focusing on track flow and timed jumps, which adds depth beyond standard lap racing.
🏁 Modes & Features
Theres a solid mix of single-player modes, including the X-Cross Tournament (career), various race types (Supercross, Nationals, Freestyle), and customizable events. Local split-screen multiplayer is available, though limited by the PS2's hardware. No online functionality is present on this version.
Unlockable vehicles and gear add incentive to progress, and the game includes a respectable track variety with different terrain typesmud, sand, snow, and dirtall affecting performance.
🎨 Graphics & Presentation
For a late PS2 release, the visuals are serviceable. Environments are large and diverse but lack polish, and textures can be muddy. Vehicle models are detailed enough, and the animations for crashes and stunts are fairly fluid. However, some cluttered visuals and pop-in can distract during races.
Menus are straightforward, and the game maintains a high-energy, extreme-sports presentation throughout.
🔊 Sound & Music
The soundtrack features licensed rock and metal tracks, setting a fittingly aggressive tone. Engine noises and terrain sound effects are convincing, though repetitive. Theres no commentary or narrative layerjust raw racing energy from start to finish.
Pros
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Wide range of vehicles and racing disciplines
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Arcade-style fun with solid controls
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Deep single-player content
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Satisfying stunt mechanics and rhythm racing
Cons
Visuals feel outdated even for PS2 standards
AI opponents can be erratic or overly aggressive
Repetitive audio design
Limited multiplayer features
🏆 Final Verdict
MX vs ATV: Untamed delivers high-octane off-road fun with a surprisingly diverse vehicle roster and engaging single-player progression. While the graphics and presentation show the PS2s limitations, the gameplay is still solid, especially for fans of dirt racing and stunts. It may lack refinement, but it makes up for it with adrenaline and variety.
Score: 7 / 10
Recommendation:
Great for arcade racing fans and motocross enthusiasts
Skip if you prefer realistic racing sims or cutting-edge visuals
