main reason I dont own a emaxx....plastic slider shafts. even the brushed version will slowly twist and then snap those. and they are a pain to replace(not cheap either)

What did you hear bad about the venom creeper? except for the CVD center shafts having the captured pin come out (gotta loctite those guys) its a solid model IMO.
Sure, stock tires suck. But slap some better rubber on and the creeper does well. I never had any issues with the axles themselves, and the trans is tough.
Anyway, just my opinion. The axial is better, but alot more cash.

If it were my money, id buy a creeper kit over the exceed options. At least you would be able to find parts and upgrades for the venom.