Gameplay
Rather than using a complex control and trick system, Carve sticks with the basics. While Carve contains many good elements, all of them are rather simple, which can be looked at in both good in bad terms. The good news is that Carve is extremely easy for any gamer to jump right into, but the hardcore crowd might be a tad turned off with the simplicity. Regardless, the fun factor of Carve remains steady throughout.
Game modes include the standard single-player quick race, arcade mode (1-4 players), tournament mode, System Link and Xbox Live multiplayer modes (up to 8 players). As a single-player game, the tournament mode is the only area to focus on. By completing tournaments, gamers will unlock tracks, watercraft, and signature tricks.
As I mentioned before everything in this title is very simple. Every mode is exactly as it sounds with little need for explanation. This brings me to the control scheme which uses only a few basic buttons, with some variations used to perform different tricks. Here�s a quick rundown:
- Left thumbstick � control watercraft
- Right thumbstick � change racer�s view (behind, left, right, etc.)
- Left trigger � activate Double Rush
- Right trigger � throttle
- A, B, X, and Y buttons � tricks
- Black button � change between the three camera levels
Even though the game controls don�t utilize every button or function, it actually plays quite well due to the simplistic focus of each race. Gamers must not only go around the track to complete laps and beat the competition, but they are also timed in the process. As check points are hit, the time capacity is increased and the race will continue on, just like the vast majority of arcade racers. Being clocked plays a limited role in determining race results, and more than likely gamers will not run out of time if they stay focused. This is because the time acts only as a penalty mechanism. Throughout the race, gamers must be sure to pass buoys on the proper sides or they will lose time. Aside from losing time, there is a fixed amount of buoys that can be missed without causing disqualification.
Even the best watercraft racer needs to have a wide assortment of tricks in his/her repertoire in order to be successful in Carve. Completing tricks provides your racer with a sped boost while also filling the �Double Rush� meter. The Double Rush is the ultimate speed burst, which can come in handy when trying to pull off some of the more complicated tricks, or just smoking the competition.
The majority of tricks stick to the simple overall feel of the game with some using just the left thumbstick. Some tricks can only be performed while shooting off a ramp, and some can be completed only on the water. Most gamers will have no problem pulling off the combos after a race or two. Extreme sports gamers will instantly be able to go big, which might be a detraction if you�re looking for a challenge. Aside from basic maneuvering, riders can also perform tricks such as the one-hander, Superman, barrel roll, Indian air, etc. While it�s pretty simple to figure out, doing different tricks is important to fill your meter and get those big boosts of speed.
