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The Plot:  "Transworld Surf" seems about as close as video games have got to the experience of surfing. Not quite as exhilarating as watching the recent surf film "Blue Crush", the game suffers somewhat from the fact that it's difficult to simply let loose and fly off waves freely. Given the game's steep learning curve, the game often requires a bit too much precision to make it entirely thrilling at first - players will likely have to work through some frustration before improving with the game's controls. Still, the game certainly has its moments. Surfing through the pipes is remarkable, as the interior - with the walls of water - is exciting and exceptional graphically. The only problem, it's not entirely easy to control, especially as the water begins to close in. Doing tricks on the waves isn't entirely a simple process, either. There are a fair amount of options and variables available, although there's not really a solid amount of depth. Players can go through 10 locations including Todos Santos (Baja California, Mexico), Huntington Beach (California, USA), Pipeline and Backdoor (Hawaii), Hossegor (France), Kirra Point (Queensland, Australia), Jeffries Bay (South Africa), Witches Rock (Costa Rica), Tavarua (Fiji), G Land (East Java, Indonesia), Teahupoo (Tahiti) and a secret bonus location! Real life players to use include: Rochelle Ballard, Shawn Barron, Taj Burrow, Jason Collins, Tim Curran, Shane Dorian, Christian Fletcher, Andy Irons, Taylor Knox, Cory Lopez, Dan Malloy, Fred Pattachia, and Chris Ward. Players can choose Single Session, Pro Tour, Free Surf, or Multiplayer (1-4), but I would certainly recommend "free surf" for players new to the game. There are some little tweaks to the game that make it a little more enjoyable: there are three different kinds of waves - Difficult, Hazardous, and Normal. Players can paddle after another wave after they're finished with one, but there's also the option to have a sassy reef girl speed over on a waverunner and tow you right into the wave you want (a map comes up, complete with the waves to choose from and what strength they are). "Transworld Surf" is a very nice attempt - those who are fans of the sport will likely get into the game. Others, however, might find the game on the difficult side, with some repetitive aspects. Rating: 7.5/10 The DVD  Graphics: "Transworld Surf" really shines in the graphics department. While not the most stunning effort for the XBOX, the game's visuals do succeed where it counts: the water effects. While some of the far-off waves do look a little static, the waves are more impressive close-up and look mighty good when you're riding through the pipe. The non-wave water looks fluid and shiny, with nice movement. In addition, the different times of day are also nicely rendered, with nice lighting. There are a few little minor elements that aren't as noteworthy, though: the characters are not very detailed and look rather basic. The backgrounds are very nice looking, with sandy beaches and occasionally, nice scenery. While not 100%, the water FX are certainly exceptional. Rating: 8.8/10 Sound: The sound effects are about as good as can be expected for the material. Sound effects are crisp and clear, sounding fairly natural. The punk soundtrack, with tunes from Nebula, Dr. Onionskin, Cali Agents, Anti-Flag, and Sum 41, generally fits the bill for this kind of sports game. However, for those who don't like the included music, XBOX users can use music burned to the XBOX's hard drive, which is always a major plus. Rating: 8.4/10 Gameplay: Gameplay is where "Transworld Surf" falters a bit. While the basic controls for movement are simple and smooth, it's difficult to pull off tricks on the waves - as noted elsewhere in this review, it's a good idea to start off with "free surf" and try to get a hang of how to accomplish the tricks and general moves. Rating: 7.5/10 Rating Issues: "Transworld Surf" is rated "T"(Teen), but I didn't find anything that objectionable about the game. It really could have been an "E" rated game.  Final Thoughts: "Transworld Surf" has very solid graphics that especially shine in terms of the water FX. The soundtrack is very good, as well, but gameplay could be a little easier and a little more responsive. While it's better than I thought surfing could ever play on a video game, there's still some room for improvement with the controls. Surf fans should take a look, while others might find the game a decent rental. |