Monday, June 15, 2009

Review: Burnout Paradise - Big Surf Island DLC


Criterion Games stands out in the crowed gaming market as one of the best providers of additional download content for their games. Specifically with Burnout Paradise they have really raised the bar for what a developer can do to pamper their community. In total between the PS3 and Xbox 360 they have provided 10 downloadable content packs (some of them even being for free). In addicition, the devs at Criterion continue to pump out awesome patches that create an even smoother gameplay experience.


It is amazing when a person considers that this game was released almost a year and a half ago (January 22nd 2008 in North America) and is still receiving content. I think most gamers would have just been happy with receiving the bikes pack, but Criterion just keeps giving.

This past weekend I logged about 10 hours into Big Surf Island and Paradise City. I can safely say that this is the best 1000 Microsoft Points I have ever spent on Xbox Live content. Big Surf Island is incredible and offers some of the best jumps and vehicles to boot. Initally when you arrive at Big Surf Island you may wonder if the square mileage on this island is really worth it. The island itself is not huge, but Criterion has really packed in an amazing experience that you really just need to experince to appreciate. To put it into perspective you get the following:

-The Dust Storm Buggy available to drive straight away
-8 Incredible New Cars to Win
-15 Events (Including all New Island Tours)
-10 Freeburn Challenges
-12 New Roads to Rule
-75 Island Smashes
-45 Island Billboards
-15 Island Mega Jumps


Crash TV Episode 33: Big Surf Island Tour - Part 1

Perhaps one of my favorite features besides the new Mega Jumps are the new buggy vehicles. The Dust Storm and Dust Storm Superturbo are so fantastic to drive. Not only do they control very smoothly, but the tricks you can perform with them really stand out. Landing a double barrel roll or catching some serious air has never been so easy and fun. Including only these vehicles would certainly have been enough to satisfy our Burnout needs, but the other cars are great as well. Four of the Legendary Cars from previous download packs are unlockable, except this time they come in minature toy editions. I hesitate to say the word cute, but how else can you describe the mini Back to the Furture DeLorean DMC-12 and Ghostbusters Ecto-1 that are included in this DLC?!

The experience is incredible both offline and online. There is simple so much to explore and appreciate. Do not be surprised if it quickly becomes your favorite spot in all of Burnout Paradise. Big Surf Island comes highly recommended if not a necessary and critical addition to your Burnout experience. The new locale with it's awesome challenges, spectacular jumps, and superb vehicles creates an experience you will not only enjoy this summer, but for a long time to come. You can purchase Big Surf Island at the Burnout Store, Playstation Store, and Xbox Live Marketplace for $12.99.


Crash TV Episode 34: Big Surf Island Tour - Part 2

HOT SURF Brands 24/7

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