When you look at any game, a core eventually emerges, even more so when it comes to racing games. Even with Motocross titles, it’s not just about racing around tracks – it’s about the timing of the jumps, the navigation of the turns, the customization of one’s vehicles, and the sense of mastery that comes with perfecting your run. MX vs. ATV Legends seems to strive towards this this, but falters in almost every imaginable department. It stops just shy of collapsing but the overall core is rickety, and almost pitiable at times.

"The track design is actually pretty decent – each feels distinct in terms of the sections, which demand different techniques."

There are multiple different modes but you’ll begin the game in the new open-world space. This is where you’re introduced to the Compound and various characters. Don’t be fooled by the openness though. The hills aren’t as expansive as they seem; there are rollers, whoops, inclines and jumps for performing tricks along with some collectibles. But drive too far off into the horizon and you’re unceremoniously repelled back. It’s ultimately a barren landscape serving very little purpose.

After speaking to a few NPCs, you’re instructed to complete some tutorials, which will teach you about the various techniques (like how to lean when approaching corners). From there, you graduate to jumps and tricks – this is where things start to come undone. The left and right analog sticks can be manipulated to perform different maneuvers – holding back on the former will see you perform a wheelie. From there, it gets more complicated – hold L2 for mid-air control, manipulating both sticks and releasing the left at the correct moment for more air, leaning forward for more recovery time after a jump. Pulling these off is incredibly unwieldy, at best.

It only gets worse when you participate in actual races. Career mode, regardless of whether you’re pursuing MX, ATV or UTV events, is grouped into different segments like Invitationals, Trails races, Nationals, and so on. Of course, to unlock ATV and UTV races, you need to complete enough of the MX career first. The track design is actually pretty decent – each feels distinct in terms of the sections, which demand different techniques.

Whoops, for example, necessitate holding back on the right stick to quickly skip over them. Some big ramps require more height on take-off – others demand you ease up on the acceleration and stick the landing. Though these areas can be quite repetitive in terms of scenery, the rolling green plains and snow-covered mountainsides offer some gameplay differences. This isn’t to say they look amazing either and issues like texture pop-in or terrible rider animations certainly don’t help.

"Even if all of these gaffs were absent, Career Mode can still be very low-rent with its thread-bare plot and forgettable characters."

Of course, you’re quickly introduced to another issue with Legends’ gameplay – the other racers. Their AI is, to put it kindly, bad. Sometimes, they’ll constantly be ahead of you, skillfully navigating jumps without so much as a hitch. Other times, they’ll constantly slip, slide and crash but recover quickly and remain competitive. Given how random collisions can be, whether it’s with other drivers or the environment, this can turn some races into messy affairs.

The physics can also be very hit-or-miss. While navigating berms and ruts, the controls can feel precise when leaning with Motocross bikes. ATVs, on the other hand, feel heavier which makes sense given their weight and its distribution. UTVs, meanwhile, are almost like hockey pucks, ping-ponging around the environment, as likely to keep going after an absurd crash as they are to stop dead-cold on the most random of objects.

But while MX bikes and ATVs feel the most responsive, there are still plenty of instances where you will randomly crash, overshoot a turn, jerk around too quickly on a turn, and so on and so forth. Even the water can be your enemy – a shallow stream can sometimes cause you to outright stop and crash. Be careful on the beach as getting too close causes the water to suck you in, almost never to return. At least the tricks look nice, though they don’t really add much of anything to the overall gameplay.

Even if all of these gaffs were absent, Career Mode can still be very low-rent with its thread-bare plot and forgettable characters. Essentially, you win races to earn more fans and currency. You do have points where it branches off into different kinds of events, and there is decent variety, whether it’s straightforward lap-based races or hitting a certain number of checkpoints while having some freedom of navigation.

"One of the better aspects of Legends is the new Trails mode. Many of these tracks are far more open and sport various branching paths."

However, due to a constant crashing issue, I was unable to progress past a certain point in MX Career. And not advancing in MX Career means the ATV and UTV Careers come to a stand-still as well.

In terms of customization, the currency is used to either purchase better parts when tuning (which can make a ton of difference, even when going back to replay previous races) or customize rims, suspensions, and so on. Even by arcade racing standards, there’s a surprising lack of options – think along the lines of “upgrading acceleration at the cost of power” and vice versa, though the alternative can provide benefits to traction as well.

Cosmetic customization is similarly boring and limited, whether you’re changing outfits and helmets for the rider or having to spend currency to change the colors of your seats, handlebars and whatnot. I know recoloring isn’t free in real life off-road racing but I refuse to believe my own in-game garage is that stingy when it comes to paint jobs. At least they provided new parts and vehicles for free while progressing through Career Mode.

One of the better aspects of Legends is the new Trails mode. Many of these tracks are far more open and sport various branching paths. These offer actual, impactful choices and learning them for the most optimal run time can be entertaining. It also doesn’t hurt that the overall design and look of these environments is nice, graphical quality notwithstanding.

"I really hesitate to call MX vs ATV Legends an outright disaster. It’s not great, by a long shot, and yet, it’s sort of enjoyable at certain points, in certain instances, in small doses."

Aside from the lackluster Career Mode and Exhibition for selecting different types of events and tracks, there’s multiplayer. When queuing online in Quick Play, I was placed in a race with no other drivers. Why I didn’t win by default continues to haunt me to this very moment. Suffice to say that I didn’t revisit the option later. You can also matchmake with other players to explore the barren open-world together for some inexplicable reason.

As you’ve no doubt gathered by now, MX vs ATV Legends isn’t a very good game. The visual quality is rough, falling below average in terms of effects, textures and animations. Sound effects, notably the engine sounds, are similarly low-budget and the soundtrack is either an acquired taste or downright annoying (even if you’re a Bring Me the Horizon fan). This could all be forgiven if the gameplay was on point but wonky AI, inconsistent and at times incomprehensible physics, unintuitive controls and various bugs just keep getting in the way.

Despite all of this, I really hesitate to call MX vs ATV Legends an outright disaster. It’s not great, by a long shot, and yet, it’s sort of enjoyable at certain points, in certain instances, in small doses. If you’re looking for an in-depth Career Mode, an extensive open-world to explore or compelling Motocross gameplay, then you’re better off looking elsewhere. Even with the lowest expectations, MX vs. ATV Legends barely passes muster.

This game was reviewed on PS5.

In 2005, both brands crossed over in MX vs. ATV Unleashed. It would receive three more titles published by THQ before its bankruptcy; Nordic Games would then take on publishing duties for MX vs. ATV Supercross in 2014. After the formation of THQ Nordic, MX vs. ATV All Out would be released in 2018. Now, more than four years later, the series is making a comeback with MX vs. ATV Legends.

It’s out on June 28^th for Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, PS4, PS5 and PC with Rainbow Studios once again at the helm. Let’s take a look at 11 things you should know before picking it up.

Large Open Environments

One of the biggest ways that MX vs. ATV Legends departs from its predecessors is with the addition of large open environments. Rawlings Farm is a good example. It offers a variety of different terrain, including a mountain that can be explored if you find the path. You’ll also discover a variety of different roads, landmarks, tracks and much more while exploring. Don’t worry though – traditional Supercross tracks like Atlanta Supercross are still here and thanks to the refined physics system, you’ll have a higher degree of precision when navigating the various berms and ruts.

Career Mode

The large environments also play a role in the new Career Mode. Dubbed Legends, it sees players working their way up to becoming a pro rider, undertaking different sponsorships and competing in special invitational events. You may also come across NPCs in environments that can offer their own help. Be careful though as different choices can lead to different paths in your career. It’s also confirmed that the Pro Motocross 50th Anniversary Season will be available at launch for those wanting a real-world tie-in.

Dynamic Weather

Traversing terrain in the great outdoors is easier said than done, especially when trying to stay ahead of the competition. But MX vs. ATV Legends makes races even more challenging with the addition of dynamic weather. Rain and snow are two confirmed conditions that can affect your chances, likely causing reduced visibility and affecting steering and maneuverability. Whether other conditions exist is unknown but you should always be prepared for the inevitable.

Racer and Vehicle Customization

Customization is key in a racing game…and sadly, there just aren’t enough details about how MX vs. ATV Legends handles it. You can customize the various ATVs, UTVs and bikes in the game with different parts from various manufacturers but beyond that, we don’t know much. Your racer can also be customized, likely with different helmets, gloves, boots, logos, outfits and much more. As always, we’ll have to wait for more information.

Trails Mode

If you’re looking to make your own path, then there’s Trails Mode. The basic gist is that you’re charting a path based on the shortest distance to your destination, rather than following a set road. This means taking branching paths – which can require split-second decision-making at times – and navigating ravines, forests, beaches and much more. Not only is this a great use of the game’s large open environments but it also encourages taking the road less traveled in hopes of beating the competition. Some paths may take you on narrow cliffs overlooking the sea though and it’s a long way down so be prepared.

16-Player Online Mode with Squads

To further facilitate the larger environments, online multiplayer supports up to 16 players with squad-based gameplay. What this actually means has yet to be detailed. Can your squad-mates help you out of dicey situations? Maybe each player’s position at the end of a race in Trails Mode contributes a certain amount of points to the team’s total pool. We’ll have to wait and see. Also, the Xbox Store listing confirms cross-gen multiplayer so Xbox One and Xbox Series X/S players can group together (which should apply to PS4 and PS5 players as well). No cross-platform play at this time, unfortunately.

Two-Player Split-Screen

Don’t want to venture online or just want to play with friends offline? Local two-player split-screen is supported, and should result in some pitched battles when competing in the larger races. Of course, if you want to have a clean 1v1 race, then that should also be possible.

Xbox Smart Delivery Support

The off-road racer supports Smart Delivery on Xbox consoles. You only have to buy the game once and it will be playable on Xbox One and Xbox Series X/S with the latter being fully optimized. A free PS4 to PS5 upgrade should also be available, so you won’t have to buy into any Dual Entitlement nonsense.

4K Ultra HD

On Xbox Series X, the title is listed as running at 4K Ultra HD. Though it’s not specified whether 120 FPS is supported, 60 FPS is more or less confirmed based on gameplay footage thus far. And if the Xbox Series X version supports 4K, you can expect the PS5 version to do the same (though how close they’ll be in performance remains to be seen). As for Xbox One and PS4 versions, we’re still waiting for more details.

OEM Vehicles and Track Pass

MX vs. ATV Legends has a fair bit of DLC, both at launch and after. There’s the 2021 OEM Vehicle Bundle (included in the $80 Icon Pack) which adds 36 OEM vehicles from manufacturers like Polaris, Suzuki, Kawasaki, Yamaha, Polaris, Honda, Husqvarna, and KTM. These will be playable at launch.

There’s the Track Pass which adds 22 new tracks throughout 2022. Thirteen of these are official national tracks from the 2022 AMA Pro Motocross Championship. Six are part of the Supercross World Tour and promise some challenging races. Finally, the official compound from a famous pro rider, who’s still unknown, will also be included.

Collector’s Edition

In addition to special editions like the Icon Pack and Legends Pack, there’s a physical Collector’s Edition for $150. It includes an 8.5 inch 2021 Yamaha YZ450F motocross bike and rider along with a Motorbike Sprocket Keychain, five art prints, the pre-order Customisation Pack and the base game. However, this is only the PS4 or Xbox One version, which may be an issue for collectors hoping for physical copies of the current-gen versions.

You’ll also notice the lack of other DLC like the Track Pass and 2021 OEM Vehicle Bundle. It’s thus recommended only if you want the physical goods instead of all the content.

Diablo Immortal

After tons of “don’t you have phones” memes and outrage, Blizzard Entertainment’s Diablo Immortal is out soon on iOS, Android and PC (albeit in “beta” form). Developed with NetEase and set between Diablo 2 and 3, it sees players battling the forces of evil to prevent yet another resurrection of Diablo. Six classes, each with 12 skills; end-game activities like Elder Rifts, raids, and the Legacy of Horadrim; and extensive monetization for true min-maxing via Awakening and Resonance – it’s all here. Whether it’s a trainwreck, a worthy successor or somewhere in between, Diablo Immortal releases on June 2^nd.

The Quarry

Nine teenage counsellors. Summer break. Bloodthirsty locals on the hunt. David Arquette. Supermassive Games’ next game certainly has everything that a horror fan could want. Playing as each counsellor, one must make decisions to eventually survive the ordeal. Be careful though – choices have consequences, either immediately or in the future. With tons of different outcomes, a Movie Mode for directing your own series of events, and accessibility options, The Quarry promises plenty of content when it releases on June 10^th for Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, PS4, PS5, and PC.

Sonic Origins

Relive the classic adventures of Sonic the Hedgehog when Sonic Origins releases on June 23^rd for Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PS4, PS5, PC and Nintendo Switch. Sonic the Hedgehog, Sonic the Hedgehog 2, Sonic 3 and Knuckles and Sonic CD are all included, remade on Sonic Mania’s Retro Engine. Missions for each game, Mirror Mode for each level, Boss Rush, and in-game museum to unlock additional content like music tracks are all included. You can experience the games in Classic Mode or Anniversary Mode with the latter having widescreen support, unlimited continues and Sonic’s drop dash from Sonic Mania. DLC practices aside, it’s looking like a good time.

Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak

Monster Hunter Rise’s Sunbreak features a brand new region where players must battle powerful, horror movie-inspired monsters that hold dominion. A new base in Elgado Outpost offers new NPCs and facilities while Master Rank is introduced, adding new armor and weapons (along with new moves for previous monsters). New monsters include Magma Almudron, Lunagaron, Aurora Somnacanth, and Elder Dragon Malzeno in addition to returning foes like Sergios. There are also new Silkbind Attacks and Switch Skills, the Switch Skill Swap function for even more combo potential, Followers that can accompany you on certain quests and much more. Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak releases on June 30^th for Nintendo Switch and PC.

Silt

As blissful as deep-sea diving may seem, Spiral Circus’s Silt exposes the sheer range of horrors that can lay in wait. Presented in stark monochrome, you play as a diver seeking to uncover ancient mysteries. You can possess nearby creatures to solve puzzles but beware the massive goliaths and other terrors that traverse the ocean. Silt is out on June 1^st for Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PS4, PS5, PC and Nintendo Switch.

Metal Max Xeno Reborn

Action RPG Metal Max Xeno: Reborn is getting a Western release for PS4, Nintendo Switch and PC. Set in the ruins of Dystokio where machines rule, players use combat vehicles to fight back in a mix of real-time and turn-based combat. Venture through the wasteland and lay waste to the machines, salvage materials and upgrade vehicles while embracing true freedom of exploration. Support for up to four players, multiple skill trees and tons of customization await when it releases on June 10^th.

Outriders Worldslayer

Outriders’ first paid expansion Worldslayer features a brand new campaign and a new antagonist named Ereshkigal to go with its world-ending scenario. New environments, new weapons and armor (including Legendary Armor sets for each class), and a separate PAX tree to further diversify play-styles are just some of the new additions. Pair this with the Paragon-esque Ascension Levels, new Apocalypse gear, more Apocalypse Tiers, and brand new endgame content, and Worldslayer will keep you busy for a good long while. It’s out on June 30^th for Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PS4, PS5, PC and Google Stadia.

MX vs. ATV Legends

Bikes, ATVs and UTVs collide on a new generation of consoles in MX vs. ATV Legends. Releasing on June 26^th for Xbox One, PS4, Xbox Series X/S, PS5 and PC, it includes a new Career Mode, wide-open environments to go with traditional tracks, and 16-player online multiplayer along with split-screen support. The new Trails Mode also encourages a different style of racing with branching paths and dangerous obstacles to traverse.

Deliver Us The Moon [PS5, Xbox Series X/S]

Previously scheduled for release on May 19^th for Xbox Series X/S and PS5, KeokeN Interactive’s Deliver Us The Moon is now out on June 23^rd. Set in the future where Earth’s natural resources have dwindled, players must explore a Lunar base after it goes dark for its energy supply. Tensions abound though and it’s not clear whether they’re real or imaginary. On current-gen consoles, Deliver Us The Moon will support 4K gameplay, ray traced shadows and reflections, fast loading times and the DualSense’s adaptive triggers and speakers. PS4 and Xbox One can even upgrade to PS5 and Xbox Series X/S respectively for free.

Cuphead: The Delicious Last Course DLC

Cuphead is almost five years old with The Delicious Last Course DLC first revealed way back in 2018, which is crazy in retrospect. It’s now finally – barring any sudden last minute delays – releasing on June 30th for PS4, Nintendo Switch, PC and Xbox One. Promising new weapons, charms, a new playable character with Ms. Chalice, and several new bosses in the new Inkwell Isle region, the DLC could be Cuphead’s craziest and most challenging adventure yet.

MADiSON

What’s better than two horror games in the Summer? Three, of course. Bloodious Games’ MADiSON is a first person psychological horror game where you play as Luca, who wakes suddenly in a locked dark room. Forced to partake in a terrifying ritual by a demon named MADiSON, you’ll be taking pictures to reveal secrets, and ideally survive the ordeal with random events and changing puzzles keeping you on your toes. MADiSON releases on June 24^th for Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PS4, and PS5.

DNF Duel

Based on Nexon’s online action RPG Dungeon Fighter, DNF Duel is a 2.5D fighting game from Neople, Eighting and Arc System Works. As such, flashy combos and gorgeous visuals are to be expected with 16 characters to choose from. Slice and dice as the Ghostblade, combo enemies at range with the Gunslinger or rely on ninjutsu as the Kunoichi among other combatants. In addition to online play with rollback netcode, there’s Story Mode, Arcade Mode, Survival and Free Battle. A gallery for viewing cinematics and music along with a Glossary for learning more about the series’ setting and organizations is also included. DNF Duel is out on June 10^th for PS4, PS5 and PC.

Redout 2

WipEout and F-Zero fans take note – 34BigThings’ Redout 2 is out on June 16th for Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, PS4, Xbox Series X/S, PS5 and PC. Master the controls and partake in a new Career Mode with tons of events across 36 tracks (each with a reversed variant). There are 12 fully customizable chassis to choose from; competitive multiplayer for up to 12 players (six on the Switch); and custom content and seasons with even more rewards to look forward to.

Demon Slayer: The Hinokami Chronicles [Nintendo Switch]

Break out the Gurenge cover playlist – Demon Slayer: The Hinokami Chronicles is coming to Nintendo Switch on June 10^th. Based on the first season and the Mugen Train movie arc, the 3D fighter includes an extensive story mode with exploration, boss battles and cutscenes as Tanjiro attempts to save his sister Nezuko. Versus Mode with 2v2 battles supports local and online play with 18 characters to choose from, including Academy versions of existing characters.

Disgaea 6 Complete [PS4, PS5, PC]

Nippon Ichi Software’s Disgaea 6 Complete is finally coming to PC, PS5 and PS4 worldwide on June 28^th. With a max level cap of 99,999,999, quadrillions of damage and fully 3D visuals, this entry is perhaps the most divisive yet. Nevertheless, a wacky adventure with zombie Zed embarking on a journey to defeat an overwhelming force, resurrecting after each death to become a little stronger, awaits. All previously released DLC, from cosmetics to additional playable characters, is also included for free.