SSX was released by EA SPORTS on February 28 to generally positive reviews, with many reviews noting that the series managed to seamlessly integrate advanced visual technology with a nostalgic “just fun” approach. After playing the on-disc slopes for two months, I found myself still challenged by courses such as Kilamanjaro, noted specifically because it’s so hard to make your way down the course without spamming the Rewind button. Although some tracks were still giving me fits, I desired more to help prolong the game’s lifespan. Enter Mt. Eddie and the Classic Characters pack, a DLC scheduled for release on May 1.
The file size is modest, a mere 246.20 MB (on the Xbox 360, at least.) With the ‘Classic Characters’ DLC, you get to relive the past with retro versions of seven characters from SSX 3 and Tricky – Elise, Mac, Zoe, Kaori, Psymon, Moby and Eddie. As you would expect, the characters have been visually updated to fit in with current-gen graphics and expectations, but you will most definitely recognize them if you played the older games. Included with those characters is an an alternate outfit and snowboard for each.
However, while seven classic characters as well as the addition of three classic music tracks bolstering an already powerful soundtrack, the real fun of this DLC begins at Eddie’s Peak. Featuring a total of nine new Race and Trick drops, this is where fans of SSX Tricky will feel most at home. The highlight of this course by far is over 7,850m of ‘The Big Wachowski’, which includes both a trick and race option for what I feel is the most fun drop in the entire game.
For some easier (but still headache inducing medal scores) boarding, look no further than ‘The Kid’s Corner’, which highlights a bite-sized portion of ‘Wachowski’ and showcases what makes SSX so dang fun in the first place. Fireworks and big air opportunities take up majority of the short-but-efficient 1,050m+ ride.
Even if you aren’t familiar with the retro side of SSX, you probably won’t be disappointed by this DLC. I never have a problem when developers want to bolster a release via legitimate content at a reasonable price, and that’s exactly what this is. While you can buy each pack separately for $5.99, it’s a better buy to score it all at once for $7.99. Ultimately, if you enjoyed SSX, you will love the added challenges and extra bonuses that EA put together to keep the game in your console.
SSX Mt. Eddie & Classic Characters Pack was developed by EA Canada and published by EA Sports. An Xbox 360 copy was provided for the purpose of review.