WRECKLESS: THE YAKUZA MISSIONS

Xbox video game, Activision Inc., $49.99

Wreckless: The Yakuza Missions is a mission-based, driving game for the Xbox console.  Set in the streets of Hong Kong, players choose one of two roles, each with its own storyline, that of: (A) a female cop taking on the Mafia or, (B) a male secret agent trying to uncover corruption between the police and the Mafia.  Each storyline has ten different missions and seven distinct vehicles.  While it is possible to hop between storylines A & B at any time, each set of missions must be completed before the next set is unlocked.  This single player game officially supports memory units and although not designated on its packaging, also supports driving wheels.

The game is presented in a fullscreen (4:3) version that is not enhanced for widescreen monitors.  The overall video quality is excellent.  Graphics are superb with highly detailed vehicles that suffer real-time damage with each crash.  The environment is also stunningly rendered with everything from realistic landscaping in the parks to beautiful, neon signs blanketing the city at night.  Colors are vivid and rich with fully saturated hues.  There are no major compression or other visual defects that we could observe.

Video Rating: 10 out of 10

Wreckless: The Yakuza Missions offers audio in Dolby Digital 5.1 channel surround.  The soundtrack features an overall mix that utilizes all of the individual audio channels.  Dialogue is clear and intelligible.  The surround channels are fairly active and the split rear effects enable players to sense movement all around.  The soundtrack music is techno-flavored but generic, and the game does not support burning a custom soundtrack. 

Audio Rating: 7 out of 10

The tactile effects for this game are above average and can be found in every mission.  The type of tactile effects that can be experienced range from light to moderate impacts.  The best tactile effects occur with the soundtrack music, explosions, and vehicle crashes.

Tactile Sound Effects Rating: 7 out of 10

Recommended Accessories: “MC2 Racing Wheel and Pedals for Xbox” Mad Catz, Inc., $59.99

 

The MC2 Racing Wheel and Pedals set is a wonderful accessory for Wreckless: The Yakuza Missions.  In addition to its rubberized grip and retractable legs, this product further enhances the player’s comfort level with the Accudrive system.  Accudrive enables players to tweak the wheel sensitivity to their particular driving preference.  But if you flip or crash your vehicle, get prepared for some vibration feedback.  Officially licensed for the Xbox video game console, the MC2 is well constructed and boasts a limited lifetime warranty.