MotorStorm and its sequels were games that never caught my interest. They had some great ideas, mainly having different off-road vehicles race each other at the same time, but they seemed too tame to me; just another racing game that didn't quite have a hook strong enough for me to actually buy it. That’s likely about to change now that I’ve gotten a chance to play MotorStorm: Apocalypse. It has been a long time since a game took me from mild disinterest to wide-eyed enthusiasm in such a short time.

The biggest change is also the most obvious. Rather than mildly populated areas or scenic vistas, the race is in the crumbling ruins of a city. The buildings are dilapidated and ready to fall over at any moment, gangs line the streets and fire at your car, and debris litters the course. Explosions rock the car and change up the track on the fly though the same damage happens the same way in every race. That first experience is completely exhilarating and unpredictable though there are branching paths to discover in an attempt to keep that sense of discovery. With all the craziness going on, the game runs at a blistering pace.

The rest of the game plays essentially the same as the other MotorStorms. There are several types of vehicles to choose from each with their own strengths and weaknesses, and the boost system is based on the car’s internal temperature. Unlike previous games though, the cooldown isn’t reliant on pools of water. The car cools down much more quickly and this comes with a better sense of control. It’s simple to dive and duck around the debris, and this is essential when facing off against the intense enemy A.I. These guys will push and shove you every inch of the way, making it feel like a real battle to the finish.

MotorStorm: Apocalypse surprised me greatly. While there is more of the same, the presentation surrounding it is much better at grabbing your attention and provides some great moments. If the other tracks are able to bring this same intensity and keep things fresh, this may be the first MotorStorm game I purchase. If you’re already a fan, you are in for a real treat when it releases this February.