Review: Crackdown (X360)

Crackdown delivers a thoroughly entertaining and fun game that feels like a short, but action packed, graphic novel.

Elements of the gameplay are a pure joy: rooftop leaping, explosions, weapons targeting, grenade launchers, and interactive objects. Other parts of the gameplay feel half finished or rushed, such as: road races, rooftop races and mission variety. However, on the whole, Crackdown is just simple, unadulterated fun, where you can do what you like, when you like, how you like.

The graphics are inspired by the look and style of graphic novels with partial cell shading and comic book characters. The draw distance from the tops of the building is impressive, the character and vehicle models work well (especially the levelling up changes) and the framerate is pretty consistent. The spawning and drawing of objects is less impressive with a short draw distance and inconsistencies.

Crackdown has a weak soundtrack and some problems with the narrator talking about situations you are not in: for example,. “Best view in the city agent”, when you are in the swimming in the sea! However, the explosions and other sound effects are great with huge bass and plenty of depth.

The nature of the open gameplay means you will still be playing even after completing the story (in about 10-20 hours). The achievements are very well designed, encouraging replay whilst being realistic and fun in obtaining. The co-op is a bit of a let down as stats and tasks completed in co-op are not carried over to the non-host. If you join a game, you must do so selflessly to help the host player only.

I found this game to be such complete fun. Yes, there are some annoying and half finished features in Crackdown, but the basic concept, gameplay and experience is such a pure joy that you’ll find yourself loosing hours messing about in the open sandbox world. I have invested more that 20 hours, even after completing the story after about 10. Crackdown draws you in and doesn’t let go. Please note that I am a fan of graphic novels (especially Frank Miller), so I love the style and substance of Crackdown. If you don’t like the genre then deduct 2 marks.

8/10