This sequel improves on the original by offering larger racing environments, more modes of play and much more detailed graphics. The environments now have a full complement of trees, cacti, bushes and other solid objects to smack into, and some game modes even introduce highway traffic into the mix. There is nothing like jumping over a moving semi on your way to the finish line! The new Pro Circuit career mode adds a lot of replayability (and long-term strategy) to the game, and fun multiplayer modes like tag offer a refreshing break to standard racing when playing online.

On the downside, all the new graphical goodness requires some serious computer hardware. While a 3-D accelerator isnt required, thats a little like saying your car doesnt need an engine because you can still push it. With a decent 3-D card, a 350 MHz processor, at least, and plenty of RAM, however, the game really comes to life. Those of you with 3-D audio cards are also in for a treat, as it becomes possible to tell where other riders are just by listening.

It took some time to get used to Motocross Madness 2s completely over-the-top physics. Hitting even a minor jump launches the bike straight up into the air, and bigger hills can leave you staring down at the treetops for over five seconds. Its a little ridiculous, but once we gained some familiarity with the tracks it actually made the game a lot of fun. More air time means more chances to perform outrageous aerial stunts, from the Tail Grab to the back-bending Cordova. Unfortunately, it also means unfortunate encounters with trees are much harder to avoid.