- Pride Empire

First Impressions
The Motiv Pride Empire stands out immediately with its elegant Emerald Pearl coloring, which looks like a jewel on the lane. Technically, this ball marks a turning point for Motiv, since it combines the proven asymmetric Dominion core with the then newly developed Propulsion Pearl Reactive coverstock. At 15 lbs the core carries a 2.50 RG, a 0.042 differential and a moderate intermediate differential of 0.010. Those specs classify it as asymmetric, but with a controlled imbalance that isn't as extreme as in the Jackal series. The factory finish is 5000 grit LSP (Laser Scan Polished), which creates a mirror-smooth surface. That clearly signals the focus on length through the heads and a quick reaction at the end of the oil pattern.
Comparison
Compared directly to the original Motiv Pride (solid), the Empire shows a completely different face. Where the original Pride was designed as a benchmark ball that read early and rolled in a controlled way, the Empire is built for speed and angle. It goes considerably longer through the heads and responds noticeably sharper and faster at the breakpoint. Set against the Motiv Mythic Jackal, the Empire operates a step below: it is cleaner through the heads and less dominant in oil, but often offers a quicker response to friction. A good cross-brand comparison is the Storm Phaze V or the 900 Global Wolverine: the Pride Empire provides similar length, but uses its asymmetric core to generate a bit more hitting power at impact than typical symmetric pearls in this class.
On the Lanes
The Motiv Pride Empire specializes in medium oil conditions and shines especially when the lanes start to break down (transition). Thanks to the Propulsion cover, it glides effortlessly through the heads without losing energy. Its strength lies in the ability to play extreme angles: when you're forced to move deep left and throw the ball way out to the right toward the boards, the Empire brings back the energy needed to get "around the corner." It creates a lot of skid and a defined flip on the backend. On fresh, heavy oil it is usually too slippery, but as a second or third ball over the course of a tournament, once the heads are dry, it's excellent for maximizing carry and opening up the pocket.