Final Fight: Streetwise Sucks

I don't know why I am even doing a review on this game because it was so awful that I don't know why I even picked it up to begin with. I suppose I am writing this to save those of you who read this some of your time and money. What awful game am I talking about? Final Fight: Streetwise.

This game got a bit of hype because of its old school versions that existed long ago. The game takes place in Metro City. You play as Kyle Travers, an underground street fighter. Kyle is the brother of Cody, the character in previous editions of the game. Cody has gone missing and Kyle is on a mission to find him.

Now how does he do this? By building "respect." Respect is used in the game to gain new information, weapons and moves for Kyle. You gain respect by pit fighting, completing side missions, and winning mini games. The respect you have earned decides how enemies and NPC's (non playable characters) react to you.

Fighting is annoying, which makes the whole game annoying because it is all about fighting. First off, while performing most combos you get stuck in this animation sequence that you can't control! It happens all the time and it is completely unnecessary! Second off, the enemy AI (artificial intelligence) are a little on the dumb side and they all look alike. They constantly just stand there or walk back and forth until you engage them.

There are several aspects of the game that affect your abilities. One is called Tension. Increase your Tension level and you'll get more attack moves. Next is Instinct Mode. Instinct Mode increases attack speed and accuracy. Next, Counter Time Mode. Counter Time mode allows you to slow down time while attacking. Then there is money. Money is needed for hiring allies, buying weapons, and getting some information about your brother.

The game itself has an awful story and it is very stereotypical. The graphics are terrible and repetitive. Some of the soundtrack is alright... but only some! All and all, someone tried to make this game seem cool, but it is not!

Final Fight: Streetwise is available on Playstation 2 and Xbox. It has an ESRB rating of M for Mature. This is because the game features gore, blood, intense violence, strong language, sexual themes, use of alcohol, and use of drugs.