With a wicked sense of humor that makes pre-race interviews worth watching, Downhill Jam is rarely off. The stylized character design properly sets the tone, while the real life skate videos that occasionally play don't seem to mesh well. It's still inviting as the outrageous and colorful levels keep you playing to try and find any missed areas that could lead to more shortcuts (and higher medals).

Multi-player is split screen only unfortunately, as it's set up perfectly for some Wi-Fi action. Four players can play in any of the single player race modes along with two additional choices. On bases the winner on how long they were in first place, and the other knocks out racers at certain points if they're in last. There's nothing radical or innovative, though the game's simplistic combat engine can lead to fun times in tight contests.

If you're expecting to show off your skills in Tony Hawk's standard style, you're going to be disappointed. Downhill Jam puts everyone on equal footing, ignoring the countless and arguably convoluted changes the core Tony Hawk games have endured over the years. It's a nicely designed and welcome departure, at least until it's milked in what will undoubtedly years of sequels.

Tony Hawk's Downhill Jam is rated E10+ (Everyone 10 and older) by the ESRB for Mild Violence, Comic Mischief, Mild Language. This game can also be found on: DS.