Motorcycle racing video games have always aroused great interest among speed and thrill seekers. "TT Isle of Man: Ride on the Edge 3", published by Nacon, a subsidiary of the Big Ben group, promises to satisfy this passion by offering a unique experience on the Isle of Man, famous for hosting the Tourist Trophy (TT) , the most dangerous and prestigious motorcycle race in the world.
We start with a brief history of the Tourist Trophy, which has its origins in 1907 when the first motorcycle races were held on the Isle of Man. Since then, the TT has gained a notorious reputation with more than two hundred deaths recorded over the years. Renowned drivers such as Joey Dunlop (26 victories on the track), his nephew Michael (19 victories), or even John McGuinness (23 victories) have tried their luck on this extremely difficult and dangerous circuit.
The game offers players the choice between two categories of motorcycles: Supersports and Superbikes. Supersport motorcycles include 600cc and 750cc models, while Superbikes are 1000cc motorcycles. Players can select their motorbike and race through the narrow roads of the Isle of Man at breakneck speeds.
The game world is semi-open, allowing players to move freely around the island, although they cannot leave the roads. Various missions are available, offering challenges such as time trials and showdowns, while providing trivia and a bit of history about the Tourist Trophy and the Isle of Man. Completing these missions also earns reputation (the game's XP) and upgrade points, which can be used to optimize the bike's performance.
The game also features a garage where players can perform various modifications on their motorcycle. Parts can be upgraded by spending reputation points earned during the game. Changing parts has a significant impact on the behavior of the motorcycle, which adds a strategic dimension to the game. No, riding at 300 km/h does not does not require (only) "laying down the brain and turning the handle".
Regarding the audiovisual aspects, the game stands out with decent graphics, but below a Ride or a MotoGP. The motorcycles remain nevertheless detailed and the environments, realistic, provided you do not look too closely. As for the sound environment, specialists will be able to easily recognize the motorcycle models according to the noise at the exhaust. The music, typical of an arcade machine, knows how to set the pace.
Like all motorcycle games, getting started is sometimes difficult, and a period of adaptation is necessary (hence the interest of the free mode) before leaving your competitor behind you. But once in hand, the exhilarating sensations of speed will remind you why you persevered.
In the end, TT Isle of Man 3 is a game where you have to drive, without worrying about the "team management" side that can be found in other racing games, cars or not, under license. Action and freedom are ultimately 2 words that stick well to the world of motorcycles ✌️. The game is available now at PC/PS4/PS5/Xbox One/Xbox Series.
