De La Jet Set Radio is a sequel to the popular Jet Set Radio game, following the story of a group of rebellious skaters known as the GGs as they navigate the futuristic city of Tokyo-to. The game is set in a vibrant and colorful world where graffiti is the main form of expression, and the GGs must compete against rival gangs to gain control of different districts within the city. The story is filled with humor, drama, and action as players embark on missions to spread their graffiti tag across the city while avoiding the authorities.
Gameplay
The gameplay in De La Jet Set Radio revolves around skating through the city, tagging walls with graffiti, and completing challenges to progress through the storyline. Players can choose from a variety of characters, each with their own unique skills and abilities, as they explore the open-world environments and interact with NPCs. The controls are smooth and responsive, allowing for fluid movements and impressive tricks as players grind, jump, and slide their way through the urban landscape.
Graphics and Audio
The graphics in De La Jet Set Radio are a standout feature, with a cel-shaded art style that perfectly captures the urban aesthetic of the game. The vibrant colors and stylish character designs give the game a unique and visually appealing look that sets it apart from other games of its time. The soundtrack is another highlight, featuring a mix of hip-hop, electronic, and punk music that perfectly complements the fast-paced gameplay and rebellious attitude of the GGs.
Difficulty
De La Jet Set Radio offers a fair and balanced difficulty level, with challenges that range from easy to challenging depending on the player’s skill level. The game is accessible to newcomers but also provides enough depth and complexity to keep experienced players engaged. The learning curve is gradual, allowing players to improve their skills and strategies as they progress through the game.
Reception
De La Jet Set Radio was well-received by both critics and fans upon its release, praised for its innovative gameplay, stylish visuals, and catchy soundtrack. The game’s unique blend of skateboarding, graffiti, and open-world exploration resonated with players, earning it a dedicated fan base and cementing its status as a cult classic. Critics lauded the game for its creativity and originality, with many considering it one of the best titles on the Sega Dreamcast.
Legacy
Despite its commercial underperformance, De La Jet Set Radio has since gained a strong cult following and is often cited as one of the most underrated games of its generation. The game’s influence can be seen in the rise of open-world skating games and its lasting impact on the indie game scene. De La Jet Set Radio remains a beloved title among fans of the Dreamcast and is remembered for its unique art style, engaging gameplay, and memorable characters.
- Genre: Action, Skateboarding
- Developer: Smilebit
- Publisher: Sega
- Platform: Sega Dreamcast
- Release Date: November 20, 2003