RIDE 2 Review

Taken for a ride?

Milestone are back with their latest simulation, “RIDE 2” and this time we’re back with bikes as their Forza-a-like for fans of two wheels is back. But is it better than the lacklustre first game?

Story:

You can immediately draw parallels with Forza 6’s pretty open career with the way Ride 2 structures events. You have access to plenty of events right off the bat, and then create your own seasons of eight events. Winning moves you up the rankings, opening up more events and event types, and giving you access to better team-mates and the chance to move up the team rankings too.

It’s a neat idea in principle, but there’s no human connection made with your team, and very little in the way of customisation options exists, which spoiled the immersion a little.

Gameplay:

The calendar is almost daunting in terms of what’s available to you. There’s several bike classes (very similar to the way that Forza breaks down events), and numerous events and event types within each menu branch, split across the 30+ tracks which feature a number of generally lesser-known real-world tracks and more scenic fantasy tracks, of which the Greek island used for some of the tutorials was a particular favourite with sweeping cliffs and plenty of technical sections.

The handling model definitely veers towards the simulation end of the spectrum, and even with all the aids on it’s very possible to tip yourself over the handlebars when you’re overly liberal with your use of the back brake. With everything turned off, you need a fine level of control to be successful, so thankfully there’s a rewind function (purists can still turn this off in the options).

Lovers of two wheels will find plenty to like, with bikes from multiple classes and disciplines, from 20HP classics from the 60’s, through to modern motocross and superbikes available, all of which can be customised both in terms of appearance and performance using upgrade principles nicked straight from Forza.
There’s well over a hundred events, which will take dedicated players dozens of hours, but not everything in-game is quite perfect.