Ski or Die

Game review

Ski or Die is a 1990 winter sports game by Electronic Arts for the Amiga, NES, MS-DOS, and Commodore 64. It consists of five minigames which can be played individually or in a set sequentially. Up to six players can compete against each other via hotseat in four of the minigames, and semi-hotseat in one of them (up to two players at a time). The minigames are halfpipe-snowboarding, inflatable sled racing, aerial skiing, downhill skiing, and snowball fights.

The first event involves building snowmen as quickly as possible. While it's debatable whether this qualifies as a sport, the goal is clear: create as many targets as possible within a time limit. Players can find bonuses that either replenish their resources or extend their time, adding an extra layer of strategy to the game.

Next, there's snowboarding, where the emphasis is on performing tricks. The objective is to execute these tricks as efficiently as possible while trying to avoid injuries. The game adds a twist with a few unusual obstacles, like a rabbit on a motorcycle, and gives players a two-minute window to showcase their skills.

Downhill mountain skiing is another component, though it might be the less exciting part of the game. The primary aim here is simply to reach the finish line as quickly as possible, even if it means taking a few spills along the way.

Ski acrobatics is more thrilling, offering players three attempts to pull off the most outrageous combinations of moves. These stunts are then evaluated by a panel of judges, adding a competitive edge to the event.

The final event is a unique 1-on-1 soul-riding race. Although reaching the finish line first earns points, it's not the sole path to victory. Players also accumulate points by damaging their opponent, with various items along the course to assist in this endeavor.

While Ski or Die might not be a widely acclaimed title, it stands out for its simple, original, and sometimes humorous approach. It's an ideal choice for those seeking a straightforward, fun game for relaxation. For players interested in a more traditional winter sports experience, games like Winter Challenge might be a suitable alternative. Ski or Die offers a quirky take on winter sports, perfect for gamers looking for something a little different in the sports game genre.