Driver (GB) (Driver (GB))

Member Name: thole09

Product:	Driver (GB)
Date:	29/01/09 (6 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Colourful display

Disadvantages: Overhead camera view, poor detailing

"Driver" is the first installment in a long standing series of the same name. The storyline revolves around a police officer becoming an undercover agent, building up the trust of a highly organized criminal gang by performing various tasks but at the same time reporting this information or bringing persons to justice. The Gameboy Color version is a condensed version and features fewer missions than other platforms such as the Playstation.

Gameplay is presented in an overhead "eagle eye" view of the city and cars below. Players control a specific car appropriate for the mission objective, such as an undercover vehicle to assist criminals in robbing a bank, and guide it using the arrow keys; with "A" accelerating and "B" braking and reversing. This title offers some challenge in that the player must be careful not to cause too much damage to the vehicle as "wrecking" will fail the mission at hand. It is also the way in which police officers will attempt to apprehend the player. To complete the missions players must guide their vehicle to the appropriate "X" in the area by following the on-screen arrow cues, sometimes in a certain time limit.

Graphics aren't the best in this game but did feature a wide range of colours appropriate for realism. This title is perhaps held back by its overhead view which offered little by the way of animation and design. I also found detailing in this game to be poor in that most vehicles appear to be small rectangles rather than "vehicles" in the more artistic form of the word.

Audio is acceptable and does feature some appropriate implements, such as a loud siren on trailing police officers. I didn't particularly enjoy the musical compositions in this game but did not find them to be overly noticeable in gameplay.

Overall, "Driver" offers a medium level challenge to the player and could give some replay appeal if one can tolerate the camera view presented. The final opinion could be solely down to the player which engages with the title; I can't say I would really want to pick up this title again, though.

Summary: May appeal to some and not to others