You doggin’ me up? I’m losin’ my rag with you… I’m gonna use your bollocks for snooker bal­— oh, hi there; just practicing my “Getaway” talk.

If you’re wondering what the heck I was just saying don’t worry, because I don’t even know what the heck I was saying (but you gotta admit, it sure does sound cool). I haven’t read anything on The Getaway: Black Monday (GBM) but, I have played the first one, and… it fell short on a couple of things; mainly game play.

The story here is between three characters. Mitch is part of London’s special ops team who’s out trying to stop organized crime while Eddie and Sam seek out revenge on the crime boss who killed their friend. What they don’t know is that all three of them are looking for the same person. GBM does a good job playing these character’s lives out. They show futuristic glimpses of them confronting one another, and then have you play out how they got to that point.

For example, halfway through the game you’re shown Mitch, Eddie and Sam at some docks with guns pointing at one another. The second to last level finishes with all three of you in that position, showing how you got to that point. It’s a really well-written story that brings London to life right in front of your eyes (it almost feels like your watching a Guy Ritchie film.) Mitch is an officer, so he has an assortment of guns. Eddie is a boxer; using his fists (with some weapons at times) to do the talking. The acrobatic one of the bunch is Sam, jumping off walls and using her stealth skills to avoid being seen.

One of the game’s strength is the driving (done on the opposite side of the road, of course.) You’ve got over a dozen different licensed cars and motorcycles to choose from.

The vehicle handling is great (though a bit exaggerated) allowing for some great chases and pursuits in the huge city. You’ve got side streets you can take, jumps to do and miles upon miles of open road to cruise.

My biggest problem with the game was the poor cinematography. It didn’t allow for a 360 degree turn, making it hard at times to see where you’re going or who’s pumping your hide with bullets.

However, the controls were pretty good and game play was smooth with occasional glitches.

The game shines through is the construction of London. Character designs were pretty good but the bridges, buildings, streets, and overall image was amazing. The designers did a great job re-constructing modern-day London for the game world.

Another cool aspect of the game is the extra modes they offer, especially since it seemed short. There’s race’s you can compete in, taxi missions, chases, and free-roaming. There is plenty to see and do, so you won’t get bored driving around.

GBM makes up in some areas what it lacks in others. While it might not be a GTA killer, it sure does posses some great aspects that you can’t get from GTA. My hat goes off to you Sony, you buggers have done well.

Ratings