It’s a familiar story for many gamers: the allure of a new game, the initial purchase, and then… frustration. For me, that game was a particular Mountain Bike Game that I desperately wanted to love. From the outset, something just felt off, and it all boiled down to the controls.
Initially trying to navigate the tracks felt, frankly, hideous. Whether using one control method or another, the responsiveness seemed erratic. There was this unsettling click, click, click, and then suddenly, instead of smoothly cornering, my rider would veer wildly in the opposite direction. Moments of brilliance would flash – a brief understanding of the mechanics – only to be immediately followed by smashing into an obstacle because the bike wasn’t going where I thought I was steering.
Adding to the initial discomfort was the camera. The tilt-shift effect, intended to perhaps add cinematic flair, instead induced a touch of motion sickness. At £15 on PSN, it felt like a loss I wouldn’t recover. My first impressions on both PS4 and later on the Switch were similar – a quick bounce-off, a feeling of disconnect.
Years later, something shifted. On a whim, I decided to revisit the game on the Steam Deck. The handheld’s comfortable ergonomics seemed to make a difference. Perhaps it was the improved grip, or maybe just time, but on this third attempt, something started to click. Control began to emerge, corners became smoother, though the occasional brain freeze still sent me careening off course. Interestingly, the L/R controls, intuitive in countless other games and even drone piloting, still felt alien in this mountain bike game. Sticking to the directional controls proved to be the key. Thankfully, the option to disable the depth of field cleaned up the visuals considerably, enhancing the experience.
After years of wanting to enjoy this title, something finally clicked this week. The directional controls, once baffling, now feel intuitive. I’m setting better times, unlocking bike parts, and even earned my third bike – a feat achieved by only a small percentage of players on Steam, highlighting that my initial struggles weren’t unique.
The more time spent in this mountain bike game, the more the meticulous course design shines. Visual cues hint at hidden shortcuts, rewarding exploration and skillful riding. Once the handling makes sense, it transforms into a joyous experience. However, it’s completely understandable why many players might give up early on. The learning curve is steep, but the reward is genuinely satisfying.
What’s also impressive is the continued dedication from the developers. Free DLC released late last year and daily courses with active seasons and hundreds of players online demonstrate ongoing support and a vibrant community. For those who initially bounced off this mountain bike game, perhaps it’s time to dust it off and give it another try. Persistence might just unlock a surprisingly rewarding experience.
