Let's be honest. In these rather desolate early days of the PlayStation 3's lifecycle, excitement-starved fans who coughed up $500 apiece (or worse, $2,000 on eBay) before the holidays would be happy with even an average arcade racing experience. Instead, we're all treated to one of the most satisfying off-road driving simulations in years, putting you behind the wheel of bikes, buggies, cars and trucks that bounce along at insane speeds.

The thrill of kicking up dirt and dust that spatters vehicles' painstakingly modeled exteriors and the adrenaline rush of rocketing down twisting tracks in Hollywood-style chases justify the price of admission alone. You'll also enjoy stunning backdrops like cliffs and canyons that affect how each roadster handles and look all the more impressive when viewed during brutal head-on collisions. All courses are jam-packed with shortcuts and alternate pathways, increasing replay value and adding to the excitement that much more. In another pleasing nod to authenticity, riders actually tear up terrain as they race, meaning that on successive laps, you may have to steer and swerve differently through the bends or risk spinning out.

More stages would have been nice, as would instant action options and additional game variants. However, the flaws are easy to forgive in light of an impressive online multiplayer component. Jostling with friends for position while dodging mud showers couldn't be more amusing, or a greater reminder of just how much horsepower is under the hood. Fast, fun and maniacal, MotorStorm is not quite a classic, but it will keep you happily glued to the wheel.