"True Crime: Streets of LA" came across to me somehow by accident, but after learning that the game has a cool action movie, I decided to explore this product. The abstract promised an exciting open world and the opportunity to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of Los Angeles with elements of detective and action. In those years, such games were at the peak of popularity, and "True Crime" tried to meet expectations. However, despite the many positive aspects, she left behind mixed feelings.
The first thing that attracts attention is the huge map of Los Angeles, which the developers have tried to recreate with a high degree of detail. At the beginning of the game, it's impressive: the ability to move freely around the metropolis, patrol the streets, deal with criminals and complete various missions seems exciting. However, the scale of the map turns into a disadvantage over time. The locations begin to seem monotonous: the streets of the districts, although different at first glance, soon begin to repeat themselves, and it becomes difficult for the player to remember or study them. This has a negative effect on the immersion process, since Los Angeles in the game does not feel like a living city, but like a set of identical streets and buildings.
On the other hand, the combat mechanics are pleasantly surprising. The game has a decent hand-to-hand combat system with the possibility of using various techniques. The fights feel dynamic and spectacular, allowing the player to apply a variety of combinations of punches and blocks. Shooting also does not disappoint: in addition to an arsenal of firearms, the player can improve his character's skills, which adds tactical depth. Leveling up firearms and skills makes gunfights all the more exciting, especially in the later stages of the game, where skills are key. By the end, the main character's gun turns into some kind of futuristic cannon with an unprecedented list of improvements.
However, this is where the strengths of the game end. Despite attempts to add non-linearity and variability, the tasks and missions in the game are often of the same type and do not offer significant variety. As a result, "True Crime: Streets of LA" begins to feel routine, and because of the repetitive streets and neighborhoods, the motivation to explore the world is rapidly fading.
This project could be something more. It offers a good combat system and leveling elements, but suffers from a monotonous open world and repetitive missions. This is a good game for its time, but it does not reach the level of the best representatives of the genre.
6 out of 10.
