Snowmobile video games have made their way through screens over the past decade, providing players with a diverse experience. From the excitement of fast-paced racing to the exploration of snowy landscapes, these games have evolved to become true gems of virtual entertainment.
With the muddy year in terms of snow we’ve had so far, we need other options! The video game allowed me to “get my snowmobile out” when there was no snow outside yet! Here are some of the games I’ve had the pleasure of trying in my life so far.
Sledders (2023) | PC
In Sledders you’ll drive your snowmobile and dive into the fresh powder. This is a realistic snowmobile simulator, based on real physics. All of this takes place in areas of the backcountry filled with deep snow, in what is known as “soft.” You can ride with and against your friends in online multiplayer. The goal? Reach the top before the others and show off your snowmobiling skills.
The game has received positive reviews from players, and it is developed by Hanki Games and published by Bonus Stage Publishing. Its current version is in Early Access, and the developers intend to continue adding more content, including different world maps, improved performance, additional snowmobiles, customization options, missions, and general polishing. The full release is expected to take place during the 2024–2025 winter. This game in its current version was released in December 2023.
If you’re a snowmobile enthusiast, Sledders is definitely worth a visit!
You can find Sledders on Steam or visit their official website for more information.
Ski-Doo Snowmobile Challenge (2009) | XBOX 360
Ski-Doo Snowmobile Challenge is a racing game for the Xbox 360 (registered trademark of Microsoft). In this game, you can drive your snowmobile through 25 circuits spread across 5 countries. The game also offers the opportunity to customize 20 Ski-Doo machines and upgrade them. Plus, you can compete against eleven other players online or a friend locally. The feeling is a bit similar to Grand Turismo.
In Ski-Doo Snowmobile Challenge, you can: Hurtle down the slopes at over 100 mph with high-definition cinematic effects. (Although the game dates back to 2009, it’s still aged pretty well.) Compete against other players in 12-player online matches via the Xbox LIVE network. It’s important to note that XBOX 360 Live is no longer available for some aging games. To this day, it was still possible to play online.
You will also be able to participate in events such as Snow Cross, Cross-Country, Aerial Freestyle, and Hill Cross. In this game, you can accumulate “adrenaline” with tricks and daring maneuvers, and then go into “Overdrive” mode. This mode makes the snowmobile incredibly capable.
It will be possible to perform 16 dangerous stunts in mid-flight, to score big points … if you manage to land. Take note that it’s time to be bold in the game, never try to replicate this in reality… Your life depends on it. Please be wise and careful!
There is a variety of snowmobiles allowing you to ride 20 authentic Ski-Doo snowmobiles. You will have the opportunity to purchase upgrades for each snowmobile and customize their colours and stickers.
This game offers a thrilling experience of snowmobile racing in an icy environment, with high speeds and thrills. If you like speed and a challenge, Ski-Doo Snowmobile Challenge might just be the game for you! I repeat, despite his age, he has aged very well. It’s pretty much my favourite in the three games I’m showing you today.
Til Nord (2021) | PC
Til Nord is an open-world driving video game where you pilot a snowmobile to explore a beautiful world, reminiscent of the Monts-Valin in Saguenay! In this game, you’ll discover random quests and events that occur on the large map, as this open world is almost infinite.
Climb a high mountain to see the Northern Lights, take part in races to find a mysterious lighthouse, and much more. As you travel through Til Nord, you will come across many missions. Repair the power of a lighthouse, take part in various races against the clock and learn more about the history of Til Nord. This game was developed as part of the third-year project of the Institute of Games and Animation Development (IGAD) for the year 2020–2021.
Personally, I find it is the least interesting of the three games presented here today. The graphics level is poor for the year and it is sorely lacking in diversity in the choices of snowmobiles. I still played a good six hours of it before storing it away in my collection. It’s worth a try for the price.
If you’d like to buy it, it’s available on Steam by clicking here.
In Conclusion
Despite these advances, some challenges persist in the snowmobile video game industry. Balancing accessibility for new players and depth for veterans remains an ongoing challenge. Developers must juggle intuitive controls and complex gameplay mechanics to maintain a delicate balance.
Looking to the future, the industry seems poised to further explore the possibilities offered by technology. Virtual reality could put players right in the middle of the action, while the integration of artificial intelligence promises a more personalized gaming experience.
Finally, the snowmobile games of the past decade have carved varied paths through the snowy landscapes of the virtual world. Each title has made its own contribution to the evolution of the genre, providing players with unique and memorable experiences. As we venture into a new decade, it’s exciting to imagine the thrilling future descents and unexpected turns that await us in the frosty world of snowmobile games.
