Taxi-Driver Training (Crazy Taxi (DC))

Member Name: Topdog

Product:	Crazy Taxi (DC)
Date:	22/01/02 (96 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Stress-Release, Easy

Disadvantages: Aimless, Not a Long-Term Game

The goal of "Crazy Taxi" is to take as many people, as quickly as possible, to their intended destinations. The game is very easy to play, with only a couple of minutes required to get the advanced moves correct. You can get there faster if you master the quick-start maneuver, take turns better with cornering techniques and generally beat the clock a little easier.

You can select the number of minutes you want to play, and choose from 3 different drivers as your character. The only differences in characters are their comments and the style of cab. They all have the same speed and capabilities.

You can earn different ratings with the greater number of passengers you deliver in time. The passengers also make wise comments and get more and more aggravated the later they become. You earn points by delivering them on time, with time to spare. The color of the circle in which they stand tells you the amount of time you have and the distance to their target. Use this clue if time is short and you know you won't be able to deliver a long-distance fare.

This game has fairly good graphics for the nature of the game, and the music is actually an excellent selection (Offspring seems to have scored the whole game.) If you get bored with the standard play, you can tackle the extras and try to master new moves.

The problems with the game are these: There is no continued play - if you do well, there is no "continue" option to further the game. There is no reward, other than a label which depends on the fares you deliver. There are only two locations, so the scenery can become dull, even though somewhat thorough. The game doesn't go anywhere.

I found myself deeply engrossed in this game for the first few days, and enjoyed alternating turns with my brother to see who could do better. However, after about a week the shine wore off and the boredom set in. This isn't the kind of game you invest weeks in, a
nd finally win and feel good about yourself. It tires quickly.

One idea for an improvement I had would be for the taxi to show damage, which would negatively impact your ability to control the automobile. The crashes that this vehicle can take are astounding, but never result in damage or injury. It might be a nice touch.

If you still want to buy it, get it used. We did, and it cost about $15.00 (American). It's still fun for a 10-minute filler every now and then, but since it has no goal, there's no investment. My recommendation of this game is based on the purchase. Don't buy it - rent it.

Summary: