System: PSP
Dev: Sniper
Pub: SEGA
Release: Aug. 2, 2007
Players: 1-2
ESRB Rating: Everyone
Review by Cole Smith

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Review Rating Legend
1.0 - 1.9 = Avoid
2.0 - 2.4 = Poor
2.5 - 2.9 = Average
3.0 - 3.4 = Fair
3.5 - 3.9 = Good
4.0 - 4.4 = Great
4.5 - 4.9 = Must Buy
5.0 = The Best

Another concern of mine is the control system. The PSP's nub is no substitute for the stick on the PS2 or Dreamcast. It's not easy to adapt to the nub if you're comfortable with the original system, but I admit the vehicle is responsive once you get used to it. It steers well, and because it's an arcade game, the physics is on your side - with the exception of the braking system. When you want to stop, it's like the road is covered in Vaseline. You won't stop on dime, but you can use the bank building to help your vehicle come to a halt.

The taxi performs jumps like a maniacal motocross machine. It corners with precision, and is able to dodge oncoming traffic with a reflexive twitch of the nub. Sure you'll crash into a lot of walls and vehicles, but in some cases that's a necessity as you use them to rebound off like a pinball. At worst, they will slow you down or stop you in your tracks. In such cases, you just have to put your taxi into reverse to get back on track. A lot of trial and error is involved, and since the game is scripted, you can memorize where the fares are and where they are going. It's a combination of using the controls to your advantage, as well as knowing the routes and shortcuts to take which will help get you to the next level.

A friend with a copy of this game will allow you to access the three multiplayer modes. You can even game-share two of the modes with a friend-in-need (or what I like to call a bum without a PSP). Using the ad-hoc wireless system, you can play Time Trials against another opponent. The object of this mode is to get more cash than your opponent within the time limit. It's like playing against the CPU in the main single-player mode, but it's a lot more fun. The C-R-A-Z-Y mode lets one player establish a time to deliver a fare, while the other attempts to best it. Both the Time Trials and the C-R-A-Z-Y modes can be shared with one PSP and one copy of the game. The Head-to-Head mode requires two games and two PSPs. Both players play on the same map at the same time. Things can and do get crazy in this mode.

Like the various mini-games, these multiplayer modes are fun, but they have little lasting impact. In fact, the same could be said for the entire game. Due to the repetition of the gameplay, as well as the locations and the characters, it's best played in small doses. Otherwise it could drive you crazy.

By Cole Smith
CCC Senior Writer

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