Feb 2001 Volume 82 Number 2 "serving the protectors"
By Mike Horsfall

PLAYSTATION 2

MIDNIGHT CLUB - STREET RACING

Those who have recently ventured into the world of PlayStation 2 will be pleased that the range of new titles continues to broaden. The latest in the range is Midnight Club Street Racing - a game based around illegal street racing.

Players begin the game by driving a taxi around busy city streets until a member of the illusive Midnight Club challenges them to race through the city at breakneck speeds. Set in realistic, 3D models of New York, Tokyo and London, Midnight Club features single and multi-player modes, a variety of vehicles and some of the greatest car-tuning shops in the world.

Midnight Club brings PlayStation 2 users the action of high-speed driving and adventure. The core gameplay consists of 39 races, most of which involve high-speed maneuvering against a barrage of opponents through completely open city streets.

For the opportunity to win a copy of this new Jack of all Games title, put your details on the back of an envelope and send it to Midnight Comp, SA Police Journal (168).

SMUGGLER’S RUN

Another recent release for the PS2 console, Smuggler’s Run also requires players to evade the local law enforcement authorities. This time the action involves off-road vehicles designed to push the players skills to the max as they attempt to master the controls needed to successfully make it across unforgiving terrain.

As a member of a ruthless gang of smugglers, the player has to evade the US Border Patrol, CIA, and cutthroat rivals to deliver the illegal cargo. During the journey, be prepared to pass through a variety of game levels. Each level is over 15 square miles and has a drive-anywhere environment.

Smuggler’s Run also features real-time damage models, allowing players to watch the parts fly as they battle for the ill-gotten gains. With all these features – and the exceptional graphics delivered by the latest Sony console – Smuggler’s Run is almost as good as a PC game – maybe even better!

PLAYSTATION

DRIVER 2 - BACK ON THE STREETS

Violence again threatens to ignite America when a US crime lord’s moneyman cuts a deal with his greatest rival, a Brazilian gangster. Teamed up with Tobias Jones, Tanner heads out undercover to try to keep them apart.

Driver 2 continues the saga of the professional driver in four new cities: Chicago, Havana, Las Vegas and Rio de Janeiro. Additional features include:

• Curved roads and fly-overs.
• Thirty cars to drive (including a bus and a fire truck).
• Undercover story with 40 missions.
• Film director replay option.
• Six back-catalogue music tracks for added atmosphere.
• The ability to get out of one car and steal others.
• Five two-player driving games.

It would seem that developers of such games have hit on a winner – everyone wants to play games that allow them to transform their persona into something less than law abiding. We’ve heard it all before – it’s just a game. Get over it. Driver 2 is challenging, fun and entertaining.

BURSTRICK

The world of wakeboarding is brought to the PSX console with Burstrick. Imagine the excitement of strapping a modified water ski to your feet and being towed at breakneck speeds behind a speedboat and you will have a picture of what Burstrick has to offer.

The game features events designed to stretch your skills to the limit – your dexterity limit that is. Features include:

• Nine courses throughout the world.
• Six authentic wakeboards and a number of contestants (some will need unlocking).
• More than 40 outrageous tricks and stunts to perform.
• Comprehensive training.

Graphics are well presented and audio is just as would be expected. It’s something a bit different, and provides a challenge and ongoing entertainment.

GAMEBOY COLOR

Once a toy for the kids only, the Gameboy Color now features titles produced for the older child and adult. Vegas Games (which is rated G8+) features 20 Casino Classic games including Craps, Baccarat, Blackjack, Keno, Roulette, Video Poker, and more. Cited as “A Gamblers Dream” Vegas Games is a fun title to pass away the hours while travelling (maybe to work) or sitting at home relaxing.

  

Games Frenzy is also rated G8+ and while more suited to the older child there are also games that will see adults wile away the hours. Included in this Gameboy Color title are some old favourites, including games similar to Solitaire, Hangman, Join the Dots, Scrabble and Checkers. Players can compete against the Gameboy or challenge others after linking up.

For the opportunity to win one of these titles, put your details on the back of an envelope and send it to Gameboy Comp, SA Police Journal (168).

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