As I am writing this, a very appropriate commercial just popped on the TV. Mud slinging, tires spinning and some giant trucks making old cars into pancakes, seats only 10 bucks for kids! A cheap price for an entertaining time and I can tell you that it’s a steal compared to Monster 4X4: Masters of Metal.

4X4 is high-powered big-wheel racer where you take control of four-by-four monster trucks as you can jump and crush cars against an opponent in a one-on-one race. These races are much like those on TV where two trucks duke it out as they climb mounds of dirt and race to the finish line in an attempt to land the best time. Problem is, you will find yourself getting stuck on items and having to go out of your way so you avoid the same obstacles that, in theory, make monster trucking what it is. I can’t count the number of times I was about to win a race when I found myself stuck in a ditch. Instantly, the game showcased a lack of attention. I tried each truck to see what handles best. In most racers, you are presented with a list of stats that showcase each of the vehicles' differences. 4X4 provides you with none, forcing you to randomly try each to see what fits. While in the races, you have the ability to do tricks and crush cars to rile up the crowd. They may be the only ones cheering about this game.

Anyone who has seen one of these bad boys ride over a car, the first thought in your mind has to be “man it would be fun to ride that down the street and wreak havoc!” Lucky for you, 4X4 lets you ride against 5 opponents as you weave through checkpoints in open areas. The problem is that Monster 4x4 has one of the worst camera systems in any racing game I have ever played. It hampers your ability to properly steer your truck resulting in a number of losses. You will get a good side view of your truck while racing, as your camera seems to be lagging behind like a three-legged horse in the Kentucky durby. It also hampers your ability to see small objects, one of the main reasons you get stuck… Plain and simple, this one aspect changes the game in the most negative way possible.

One aspect I love is the real red neck back woods feel of the game. It has a real white trash feel to it. Each character reminds me of Cledis the slack jawed yocal of Simpsons fame. While many might be offended, as it is a stereotypical look at people who like Monster trucks, it is comical from an entertainment standpoint. I just wish that more time was spent on the design of the characters, as they seem a bit slapped together. The same can be said about the truck models. The tracks are varied and offer a lot of variety, but the problematic gameplay makes them undesirable to drive. The music fits the game perfectly as it offers you some metal rock, adding to the games thrasher feel.

I have to say that when I received the game, I was very excited as it brought back memories of Big Foot and Grave Digger. The concept of racing around in a giant truck and smashing anything in my way would excite any gamer. Poor execution and what looks like an overall lack of care is what hurt this game. While I am not a Big Wheel fan, I would have to say I am very disappointed on how this game turned out. Let's hope we get a better representation of the sport in the future.