This was the first game that truly got me hooked to my DC! This game not only screams "innovation" literally, but this game also redefines a new genre. From the soundtrack to the visual graphics, this game promises to deliver excitement and satisfaction.
You start out alone in Tokyo 2001. Along the way you'll face challenges and if successful, you will pick up the challengers to form your own group. The city is infested with different "rudies", another term for teenage groups, who like to express themselves through their graffiti tags. Rudies have their own graffiti signs, so you know when you're on someone elses' turf. Your job is to claim the territories for yourself. Of course, this won't be an easy task. The government is determined to keep Tokyo clean-at any price. Through out all this, DJ Professor K, keeps everyone informed of the current situations through his underground radio, Jet Set Radio.
Viewing the back of Jet Grind Radio's case at the video game store, I found myself a little skeptical. Jet Grind Radio uses the cell-shading technique for the graphics. However, the job has been done awesomely. The graphics are fluent, smooth, and each character is bursting with a distinct personality. The colors in the game make everything seem upbeat, bright, and beautiful. Never before have I seen use of unique but great graphics in a game.
Controlling the game is pretty easy. I would say the learning curve may be anywhere from a half an hour to an hour. You can use the D-pad for moving in whichever direction that you please, the R-Trigger is used to speed up, and L-Trigger is used for quick tagging and moving camera when skating or grinding. The A button is for jumping and performing tricks. Just practice for an hour and it will come to you naturally.
The fun factor is great. This game is truly unique and challenging. For one mission, you may spend an hour trying to beat it; and for another, you may spend 15 minutes. Also, you can create your own tags or even download them from the web. What could be more perfect?
If you don't believe me, just go rent this game and check it out. This game will not only satiate your gaming hunger, but also the replay value is great. It's a must have. Go buy it, it's only $20. Do yourself this favor!