Thrilling Plunge Downhill: Top 5 Alternative 'Downslope' Games

Thanks to the advent of ever-evolving 3D graphics and physics engines, downhill free-riding games can provide a surprisingly authentic adrenaline rush. When gamers think about this genre, 'Downslope' often comes to mind instantly. However, if you've already aced this game or simply want a new challenge, there are plenty of alternatives that offer a fresh and swashbuckling take on this thrilling genre. We've rounded up the top five 'Downslope' alternative games that are sure to grip your imagination and your controller.

1. Steep

Gameplay

Ubisoft's 'Steep' is a blend of mesmerizing visuals and exhilarating gameplay with its integration of various winter sports including skiing, snowboarding, paragliding, and wingsuit flying. It allows players to traverse and experience the thrill of the Alpine Mountains in extreme winter conditions. 'Steep' offers immense freedom to explore and perform stunts, giving players absolute control over navigation.

Story and Setting

The game doesn't follow a specific narrative, where the main challenge is to excel in various sports and stunt performances, conquering different locations of the Alps and Alaska. The setting is stunning, with lush snowy mountains, daunting cliffs, and raging storms that make the gaming experience more immersive.

2. Descenders

Gameplay

'Descenders' by RageSquid is a heart-pounding downhill biking game with procedurally generated stages, giving each race a unique feel. The controls are intuitive, but the nature of the cycling challenges demands skill and precision from the player. This extreme downhill biking game offers a Life System wherein players lose a life if they crash during a high-speed thrill ride.

Story and Setting

Descenders doesn't focus on a particular narrative but rather quests that revolve around gaining reputation points with different teams. Players can ride across different terrains and weathers from verdant forests and dusty canyons to snowy peaks, each with its unique set of challenges.

3. Snow

Gameplay

Poppermost Productions' 'Snow' offers a realistic skiing experience. The gameplay is designed to reflect the raw speed, power, and precision required in actual skiing, allowing players to perform tricks and stunts. Where it stands apart is in its free-to-play model and an open-world that encourages players to explore and test their skills.

Story and Setting

In terms of a storyline, 'Snow' doesn't really have one. The game is more about the personal development of skills and competing online, coupled with the freedom to ski or snowboard wherever you want. The setting is based on three main locations – Sialia, Whiteridge, and Fochi – each offering a wide variety of snowy locales and terrains.

4. Lonely Mountains: Downhill

Gameplay

Published by Thunderful Publishing, 'Lonely Mountains: Downhill' is a top-down, third-person biking game that emphasizes avoiding obstacles and reaching the finish line in the least possible time. The game lets you control the speed, steering, and braking of your ride, making it feel quite realistic.

Story and Setting

There isn’t a specific storyline in 'Lonely Mountains: Downhill'. Rather, players progress unlocks new mountains to ride and bikes to use. The game's appeal lies in getting through the deliberately difficult track routes unscathed and at the highest speed. The graphics are pixelated but blend well with the natural colors of the mountains, giving it a visually pleasing aesthetic.

5. Mark McMorris Infinite Air

Gameplay

'Infinite Air' is a snowboarding game developed by HB Studios that offers deep control over the players' movement. The game emphasizes a realistic simulation of the snowboarding experience. It allows players to manipulate spins, grabs, and flips with the right stick to execute tricks and stunts.

Story and Setting

The game offers a mode where players can follow the journey of real-life snowboarder, Mark McMorris, capturing iconic landmarks in the snowboarding world. The World Editor feature allows players to design their custom epic runs and challenges using over 100 different objects. The game’s setting offers a wide variety of alpine destinations, each with their unique terrain and environmental challenges.

These are just a few examples in an increasingly crowded field of downhill thrill-filled games. Each of these has its unique spin on the genre and will satisfy anyone who craves downhill action. So, grab your gear, pick your game, and strap in for a spellbinding experience.