The Simpsons: Hit & Run

The Good
While it is a rip-off of the whole Grand Theft Auto gameplay, Hit and Run is a terrific take on the maniacal driving game.

The voice acting, supplied by the complete Simpson cast, makes the game. Numerous lines are taken from actual episodes, while new lines provide extremely funny moments throughout gameplay.

The game controls well too. Basically, all terrain is fair game for rampage driving sprees. There is also a well programed recognition of 'stuck' situations -- that is, if you flip over the car, the game will reset it right-side-up.

The ability to play as 5 characters from the series provides a nice sense of varied gameplay. Moreover, the use of a huge number of unlockable vehicles (such as 'Homer', the car Homer built, or Mr. Burns' Limo) each which their own controls and abilities keeps things interesting.

The missions themselves do increase in difficulty, but never beyond the point of fun. And even if you're not terribly skilled, you can play through the entire game, since you are given an option to skip a mission if you fail it too many times.

Probably the most fun of all is seeing a completely rendered Springfield. If it was in an episode, it is probably in the game. Krustylu Studios, the Duff Brewery, The Android Dungeon, Burns' Human Chess Board, Moe's, the Try 'n' Save... they're all here.

The Bad
While the voice acting is terrific, some lines are repeated to excess. If I heard Homer yell "Ow, my ass" one more time, I would have lost it.

The Bottom Line
A game to own for any Simpsons fan. Unlike every other Simpsons game, this one is a satisfying experience.