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Review of Grand Theft Auto: London 1969 on PlayStation

by Hemal Harris Hemal Harris photo Apr 1999
Cover image of Grand Theft Auto: London 1969 on PlayStation
Gamefings Score: 7
Platform: PlayStation PlayStation logo
Released: 30 Apr 1999
Genre: Action-Adventure
Developer: Rockstar Canada
Publisher: Rockstar Games

Introduction

Welcome to the 1960s! A time when peace signs were the hottest accessory, and running from the old bill in a vintage Mini was a true test of character. 'Grand Theft Auto: London 1969' is a nostalgic trip that thankfully allows you to ignore the slow pace of real life and dive into the criminal underbelly of the British capital. So grab your cup of tea and a crumpet as you navigate levels packed with criminals and questionable driving mechanics. Spoiler: you'll need a solid dose of patience and skill to tackle this quirky addition to the GTA franchise.

Gameplay

Gameplay remains consistent with the beloved chaos of the original GTA series but adds a unique twist: it's set in London in the 60s. The objectives are clear, often featuring a checklist of nefarious missions that would make even the most sheltered kitten raise an eyebrow. Players score by completing tasks that range from running illicit errands (which of course, involve the occasional stolen car) to causing sheer mayhem across the open-world map. Sure, you still can earn points for near-miss driving and knocking over pedestrians, but now you can do it while grooving to psychedelic '60s tunes! With missions primarily located around Ringing Phone Boxes (a quaint British version of the GTA 'phone booths'), every successful task earns you a multiplier: more chaos equals more points! The challenge comes in the form of earning those points while dodging pursuing coppers, who, rumor has it, don't have the fondest feelings for car thieves. Remember: speed is your friend, but don't expect to be winning any 'Best Driver' awards, unless you're trying to impress someone by showing off your infamous crash-and-grab skills. It's equal parts nostalgic and frustrating as you grapple with the compromised fight mechanics. This isn't cocktail hour - getting the upper hand in hand-to-hand combat requires some serious practice and replays, or you might just find yourself 'nicked' more often than not.

Graphics

The graphics might not be as slick as you'd find in modern titles and can only be described as charmingly pixelated. It's like visiting a retro café where the cozy familiarity of nostalgia is worth a few awkward stares. The perspective might be limiting, and anyone looking for smooth scrolling will find themselves longing for a time machine back to the era of witching hours with high-tech graphics. The vehicles designed for that era are spot on, from the classic double-decker buses to the iconic British cars. Switching to a classic Mini Cooper won't just make you feel like a '60s rebel, it might actually save your life during one of the frantic chases with the law. As far as graphics, the aesthetic serves the purpose of immersing the players into an alternate reality, even if it resembles a watercolor painting rather than a triple-A masterpiece.

Conclusion

If you're looking for a game that will push your patience, skill, and humor to the limit, 'Grand Theft Auto: London 1969' fits the bill. It drops you into a chaotic world where British slang flows as freely as the mischief you create. The game is undeniably challenging, requiring a mix of strategy, speed, and just maybe a few hundred retakes on those pesky missions. So, if you've got the chops to outsmart the law while barreling through the dreary streets of London in a pint-sized legend, grab your joystick (or, you know, the controller) and escape reality where burning rubber is only a 'nicked' moment away. Dust off your old console and prepare for a ride through retro pandemonium worthy of a cheeky smile or two. With all things considered, I'd say this gives a solid 7 out of 10 - just as long as you manage to miss the pavement while steering through this side street of gaming history!

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