RIDE doesn’t put its best foot forward when it comes to visuals. Its most lingering and lasting impression is a most dubious one – it has some of the longest load times I’ve been subjected to in a good while. And while the actual racing action looks just fine, there are better-looking games whose load times aren’t even half of RIDE’s. When you’re in motion, you don’t have too much time to admire the scenery or the attention to detail. But even if you choose to slow down, there’s not all that much to admire. Customization options include cosmetics, but these aren’t particularly deep, and the texture work isn’t great.
Motorcycle sounds have been somewhat stigmatized for me, since most of my commutes involve at least one instance of a crotch rocket rider weaving dangerously through traffic while going well over 90 mph. But I know when to separate that from review work. RIDE sounds just fine. It’s not great on the ears, but it’s not offensive. Bikes sound appropriate to their weight class, and though running with the pack can sound something like an angry swarm of hornets, that glorious moment when you find a hole and punch through to the lead is ever more satisfying when all you hear is the voice of your own metal steed.
