Crazy Taxi Arrives For PSN, XBLA Version Coming Soon

Today a remake of the Dreamcast classic Crazy Taxi launched on the PlayStation Network, with the Xbox Live Arcade release coming November 24th. The graphics have been updated to 720p, but licensing issues for the soundtrack and some in-game locations resulted in noticeable changes. Quoting the Opposable Thumbs blog: "The Offspring, along with Bad Religion, provided the game's soundtrack in the original release. These songs, along with the sound of that announcer, went a long way toward creating the game's mood. In the new version, they have been replaced by completely forgettable pop-punk tracks, and it's a downgrade. ... That's not the only thing that's missing. The game originally featured licensed locations. Customers would need to be dropped off at the Pizza Hut, for instance. These companies didn't spring for the advertising in the game's rerelease, but the buildings weren't updated to look like anything else; the result is a game that looks like its filled with closed-down fast food restaurants. ... this is an interesting look at what went on to become a cult classic. Still, this is no replacement for my original copy."

Comments

Re:Oh how terrible

[acedotcom]

but then again, thats one of the things that made Crazy Taxi Unique. it had super sharp graphics, decent music and the real world locations added a feel of realism to a completely unbelievable environment. In some way it would be like if they took the Pizza Hut ads out of the TMNT: The Arcade Game on the NES, sure the game would be the same, and not even matter to a new generation of gamers, but its all about the nostalgic feel for some games, and pruning that ruins that experience.

It should also be noted that CT hasnt had music from the offspring OR KFC, Levi's, or Pizza Hut ads since 2006 (roughly) none of the portable versions have the orignal ads or music, so i dont know why this would be much of a surprise.

and with that said, it should be noted that CT has one of the most significant patents in console game history. Its still a fun and groundbreaking game, but ill keep playing it on my Dreamcast for now.