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The Godfather movie series was and still one of the most influential pieces of media of all time. The game, although fun, not so much.

The Godfather is another GTA clone, go anywhere, do what you want, however in a much more closed world. The graphics for the game are quite good and this is probably why the world is so limited when it comes to exploration. But what makes up the world does make up for the lack of variety of environments.

The main part of the Godfather that separates it from being just another GTA rip-off is the system of extorting and taking over businesses. There are tons of businesses to take control of scattered throughout the city, from hotels to large racketeering warehouses down to the smallest bakery or printing press. Each business has an owner that you must "convince" to fork over some protection money. This game mechanic adds for some strategy in an unexpected place, where you must find out what scares the owner so they hand over the business without too much trouble. Once you take over the business, the pay gets factored into your weekly pay. This is your main source of income, where you get paid on how many businesses you extorted and for how much. However once you get later into the game, you will begin to get bored with trying the same things over and over again until they give-in. One great part about taking over businesses though is the task of knocking over a warehouse. These are infested with enemy goons, and you must kill them all and navigate to the owner of the warehouse to take control. This is really one of the best parts of the game. You drive around to make sure you're stocked up on ammo, then drive in a truck and find cover to pick off the guards on the outside. Its a real thrill and part of what saves this game from obscurity.

The main story is good and loosely follows that story of the first movie, however from the perspective of your own created character. The cut scenes are well done and it keeps you motivated to become the Don of NYC. The missions themselves are fun to play as well for the most part. There are side missions where you take on the position of a hit-man as well. These are a nice distraction, and there are some strange conditions for killing certain people.

The basic game-play while your on the street is good. The lock on system is helpful, but doesn't make it to easy to shoot someone in the face. Driving feels good, but can be a little unresponsive at time. Also, some character animations can seem unnatural at times, but for the most part they look great.

Overall, this is a pretty solid game for a GTA clone. Worth picking up if you can find it for cheap.

Gameplay- Solid, responsive controls 8/10
Graphic- very good for the Playstation 2 9/10
Sound- scores from the original movie, sound effects sound very realistic 9/10

Overall an 8/10

Learn more about this author, Shakeil Greeley.
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