This is by far the BEST Monster Jam game in a long time! Physics are consistent, the core gameplay is enjoyable, and the truck roster is fantastic (and the BIGGEST lineup for any single Monster Jam game to ever have at Launch)! Love the UI design too, as it's very "punkish" and reminds me of a high-schooler's notebook doodles (but in color). The game has a THPS-like Combo system that makes chaining stunts in Freestyle very addicting, but wish it recognized them more easily instead of being overly rigid.

My biggest critiques are collision detection (especially with crush cars and smaller environmental geometry in the outdoor races) and the repetitive/redundant nature of the game's single player Showdown Tour (Online Multiplayer has a couple extra modes that are more fun, but can only be accessed online only). If they can just fix the the collision detection to be more "organic", then that's a major criticism addressed. Sadly, the campaign and modes are set, so that's gonna need a sequel to properly address. This will definitely be where the game makes or breaks for people. Also, no Free Play sadly, so you'll have to replay Showdown Tour events if you're a solo gamer.

As it stands, Monster Jam Showdown is a good game and fun to play through. It's not exactly far from perfect, but it does come up short like a photo finish at the World Finals (the Racing portion that is). With some vital collision tweaks, a more fleshed out selection of gameplay modes, and maybe some extra retired or independent trucks, a follow up could easily be the greatest Monster Jam game ever made! Just needs more TLC.

Final Verdict:
7.4/10

This is by far the BEST Monster Jam game in a long time! Physics are consistent, the core gameplay is enjoyable, and the truck roster is fantastic (and the BIGGEST lineup for any single Monster Jam game to ever have at Launch)! Love the UI design too, as it's very "punkish" and reminds me of a high-schooler's notebook doodles (but in color). The game has a THPS-like Combo system that makes chaining stunts in Freestyle very addicting, but wish it recognized them more easily instead of being overly rigid. My biggest critiques are collision detection (especially with crush cars and smaller environmental geometry in the outdoor races) and the repetitive/redundant nature of the game's single player Showdown Tour (Online Multiplayer has a couple extra modes that are more fun, but can only be accessed online only). If they can just fix the the collision detection to be more "organic", then that's a major criticism addressed. Sadly, the campaign and modes are set, so that's gonna need a sequel to properly address. This will definitely be where the game makes or breaks for people. Also, no Free Play sadly, so you'll have to replay Showdown Tour events if you're a solo gamer. As it stands, Monster Jam Showdown is a good game and fun to play through. It's not exactly far from perfect, but it does come up short like a photo finish at the World Finals (the Racing portion that is). With some vital collision tweaks, a more fleshed out selection of gameplay modes, and maybe some extra retired or independent trucks, a follow up could easily be the greatest Monster Jam game ever made! Just needs more TLC. Final Verdict: 7.4/10