DESCRIPTION

Released in 1998, the original Grand Theft Auto put players in the role of a criminal where the main objective was simply to become a well-known criminal. This was accomplished by performing tasks for crime bosses, such as carjacking, drug running and killing people. Grand Theft Auto 2 is no different as players are once again placed in the role of a criminal. Set in a city overrun with crime, seven gangs are vying for control of the town. Your objective this time is not just to become a great criminal, but to earn the respect of one or more of the gangs.

Viewed from overhead, users can run around the city and take part in illegal activities whenever they choose thanks to the nonlinear gameplay. Although you can make more money and gain respect by accomplishing jobs for others, there is no need to only stick to those missions. Depending on what gang you are currently working for, you may attempt to start a turf war between two other gangs in order to weaken the both of them. Or an easier way to gain more respect from one gang is to go on a killing spree against that gang's rivals. On screen at all times is a respect-o-meter so that you know how much each gang likes you.

While crime may be overrunning the city, don't expect this to be a walk in the park. The police are still everywhere as they attempt to put as many criminals behind bars by shooting first and asking questions later. Don't be surprised if they receive backup in the form of the military either. To help players combat law enforcement, Grand Theft Auto 2 features a variety of weapons — more than 13 in all. You can always choose to simply shoot your enemies with a gun but some other options allow you to fry them with a flame-thrower or make their hair stand on end with a tazer. Feel like running someone over? Then carjack one of the more than 30 available vehicles based on cars of the 50s. All of the vehicles vary in speed and control as users can cruise in a speedy sports car or take a fire engine for a spin.

As far as improvements over the original, the game sports a brand new engine. The artificial intelligence has been altered so that missions are more complex and characters react to their surroundings. Player actions can draw the attention of other criminals resulting in more police and cause civilians in the area to panic. When the people panic you can expect things to get crazy as the game engine allows more than 50 vehicles and 200 pedestrians on the screen at one time! During all of the action users will also get to rock to the tunes of Moving Shadow Records, Flytronix and Taxi Driver.

If you have not guessed it already, Grand Theft Auto 2 is intended for mature audiences. Along with all of the violent and criminal activities the game includes blood and profanity as well. ~ Jonathan Sutyak, All Game Guide