DRIV3R

"Driv3r...not all its all cracked up to be."

WARNING: this game will disappoint many fans of the Driver franchise...

Graphics: 6 out of 10
The graphics in this game are by far one of the more disappointing aspect of this game. I generally will not judge a game solely by its gfx, but this is an exception. Although the cutscenes are very well done, the actual gfx are disgusting. Tanner, as in the other 2 Driver games, runs as if he has a pole in his spine. It is far from fluid. This has been a problem since the first Driver game. The popping also draws from the rating. It feels as if everything in the game just spawns out of nowhere. This can be tiresome, as you can just randomly hit a car during a mission. The environment is particularly pretty, although close up most buildings look almost 2D and straight outta the first Driver.

Gameplay: 8 out of 10
The gameplay itself is quite fun and realistic. The physics in this game are astounding. Small car + 18 wheeler = small car obliterated and flung like a ragdoll, while the 18 wheeler rolls along as if it hit a speed bump a little hard. Also, driving the motorcycles and scooters are just as fun. Unlike GTA: VC where you could literally be horizontal and still be on the motorcycle; when you hit something or land with a bad angle, you are sent flying. Not like GTA where you end up in a new county, but depending on the speed, anywhere from 2-20 feet from the bike itself. Not to mention, when you land, you roll and hit things, and sometimes even roll and land on your feet! Aiming and walking can be somewhat of a hassle, although if you like HITMAN, youll be happy.

Sound/Music: 9 out of 10
I usually dont consider music to be much of a tilt factor in genres such as this, but it is ok. If you are playing Take A Ride, I would recommend you mute the music and put on your own CD. The SFX are very cool...screams, cries, grunts, tires screeching, metal folding in upon itself when you crash, bullets ricocheting off walls and cars, and the magazines hitting the floor as you reload all add to the score.

Replay Value: 6 out of 10
Like GTA, even months after beating this game you will be sure to keep playing Take A Ride mode for the sheer fun of it. But, unlike GTA, there are fewer things to do everytime you go through a city. They get boring after a few times. Looking for the secret cars, Vinny's (which earn you cheats when you kill all 10 of them in one city), exploring buildings, and finding sweet jumps all make it well worth playing after beating the game itself. Plus the driving games are fun too.

Rent or Buy?
Well, i have a Blockbuster Game Freedom Pass, so I an have it for as long as I like and not pay for it, but if I had to pay to rent it or buy it, i would RENT it, simply because of the big letdown to me and other gamers.

(SCORE IS NOT AN AVERAGE; SIMPLY MY OVERALL RATING FOR THE GAME)

Reviewer's Score: 6/10, Originally Posted: 06/27/04