‘DRIV3R’ offers new twist on old theme

If a newspaper’s mantra were “You heard it here second,” you wouldn’t be impressed. So it goes with “DRIV3R”: It’s a great game, yet I’ve seen it all before.

Indeed, given the number of “Grand Theft Auto” clones out there, “DRIV3R” isn’t even second in line. Try third or fourth or fifth.

That’s too bad. This is a pretty decent game, but it loses a point for copying a formula. Granted, some of this formula was based on the first two “Driver” games, but this third installment still comes across as a “GTA” ripoff.

I’m not saying don’t buy it. Even though you’ve been there and done that, “DRIV3R” makes it worth doing again.

This game has gritty graphics, much more realistic than the cartoonish style of “GTA.” There are some annoying glitches during gameplay, but cut scenes are almost film quality. And this game has star power: Husky-voiced Ving Rhames narrates and wiseacre Michael Madsen voices the lead character. Heck, they even sent out a search party and hauled in Mickey Rourke.

“DRIV3R” offers a fine story mode and six driving games that allow you to practice your skills, memorize the streets and compete for pride. Try Survival, a game in which you flee from maniac cops who want to turn your ride into a metallic pancake. One of my games ended in spectacular fashion as three cop cars slammed into me at once.

In story mode, you are Tanner, an undercover cop with a knack for driving. You must infiltrate a brutal gang of car thieves who want to steal 40 of the world’s best cars. You play in Miami, Nice and Istanbul.

You work through missions as the plot unfolds, first testing your skills behind the wheel and with a gun. Eventually, you must impress the gang leaders and convince them to hire you as a driver.

These missions are mysterious. A guy might ask you to pick him up in your car or cigarette boat at a certain time, then reveal his plans as you progress – ah, delicious tension that isn’t expected.

The challenges also offer nice variation. You might shoot up a bar, trash an enemy’s compound in a muscle car or skulk through a hotel to shoot it out with bad guys.

“DRIV3R” is wide open – meaning you can choose your own route, though it’s smart to follow the very helpful on-screen map. You can also steal other rides, blow through red lights and demonize the populace until you’ve got a cop or two on your tail. Sound familiar, “GTA” fans?

The random pedestrians you encounter aren’t as talkative as “GTA” characters, and this game doesn’t have the deep soundtrack of popular tunes. Still, there is excellent mood music, which seems to perfectly drive the scenes with action and suspense.

If you’ve never played a version of “GTA,” give “DRIV3R” a try. It may be second in line, but it does add tasty icing to an old cake.