In the game, one can earn money by utilizing "career mode", but play for fun in Baja, Stunts, Enduro, Supercross, and National levels as well.

The game is known for its realism, including terrain, audio, and "bone-chilling" motorcycle wrecks.

[4] The "invisible slingshot" effect was also used in the game ATV Offroad Fury, also created by Rainbow Studios.

[19] During the 2nd Annual Interactive Achievement Awards, the Academy of Interactive Arts & Sciences named Motocross Madness as a finalist for "PC Sports Game of the Year" and "Outstanding Achievement in Software Engineering", both of which were ultimately awarded to FIFA 99 and The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, respectively.

[21][22] It also received a nomination for GameSpot's 1998 "Driving Game of the Year" award, which ultimately went to Need for Speed III: Hot Pursuit.