1080°: Avalanche GameCube

The sequel to 1998's best-selling Nintendo 64 snowboarding title features additional courses and characters to complement the visual enhancements offered by the 128-bit GameCube. As in the original, the game is played from a third-person view behind the character as he or she races down the powdery slope. Returning boarders Akari Hayami and Ricky Winterborn are joined by a new cast of male and female athletes, each individually rated in areas such as power, balance, and technique.

Realistic stunts such as spins, flips, and grabs can be performed in midair, while grinds are possible on objects like tree branches. Each course takes place on a different mountain at various times of day and offers multiple shortcuts to the finish. Three modes of play include Downhill, Slalom, and Trick Attack. Downhill offers competition against a series of computer opponents or up to three other friends simultaneously. Varying weather and snow conditions present distinct challenges, perhaps none more so than the titular avalanche, which forces players to outrun the landslide or be swept up in its power.

Slalom has players attempting to speed through colored flags as they make their way down the steep courses as quickly as possible, with penalties given for each missed gate along the run. Trick Attack challenges players to rack up as high a score as possible while weaving across various half-pipes and stunt-oriented courses. As in the original 1080°, licensed sports apparel and equipment for each selectable character can be unlocked as the game progresses. High scores, unlocked features, and game progress can all be saved to memory card. ~ Scott Alan Marriott, All Game Guide