Both the circle and triangle button execute tricks, with the triangle button used for advanced stunts. You can use either the D-pad or left analog stick to control steering, as well as forward and backward leaning. Gameplay-wise, the preview version was a great deal of fun. The simple, tight control scheme makes the races enjoyable and the tricks easy to master. While you cannot perform sick combos like THPS or Mirra BMX, you can hold your tricks by holding down the stunt button.
Tricks range from realistic supermans and can-cans to insane backflips and barrel rolls.
Needless to say, the game's trick list offers a mix of realism and fantasy-based fun. Freestyle Motocross' auto jump feature makes pulling tricks easier, but it does interfere with normal racing, since the rider wastes precious seconds in the air after jumps. Therefore, I used the auto jump feature during freestyle sessions, and I disabled it for standard races. While the computerized riders did not provide much of a challenge during normal races, they seemed to have the upper hand during the freestyle and combined competitions. During these competitions, the game forces you to use all of the available tricks in your repertoire.