Championship Motocross 2001 featuring Ricky Carmichael

THQ's second run at motocross greatness is already showing more spunk than the original. The tracks are wider, more dynamic and--for the most part-devoid of momentum-killing hairpin turns. Control, while not realistic, complements the arcade themes by encouraging sustained power-slides and extensive mid-air mobility. Strangely enough, the riders never take their feet off the pegs (it looks a little weird). Other than that, both the bikes and riders animate well. National Champion Ricky Carmichael is joined by 28 pros from 125CC, 250CC and the freestyle ranks. This year they ride their real bikes. Well, not all of them; the featured machines are Suzuki, Kawasaki and KTM. That's not bad considering how many games are fighting for bike licenses. Even at this early stage of development, this November release title is looking and playing better than most in its genre.