B-Boy hands-on
Developer: FreeStyleGames; Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment
Preview by Huntress (13 September 2006)
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PLAYSTATION HAVE BEEN INVOLVED with the B-Boy scene for some 10 years, sponsoring the UK World Championships and promoting hip-hop culture, of which breakdancing is an integral component. What better way to showcase this phenomenon than through a video game?
Developed by FreeStyleGames in collaboration with DJ Hooch and legendary B-boy Richard "Crazy Legs" Colon (yes, that's his real name - it's Puerto Rican), B-boy is part dance, part street battle which sees the player learning and using combinations of moves via a dynamically controlled combat system, to win challenges from other B-boys and girls.
Achieving B-boy glory is not a simple matter of stringing together a bunch of stylish moves, however; transitions are important and good timing is essential to impressing the crowd. Initially you begin your career as a clueless wannabe battling it out in a dingy basement. However as you win challenges and start earning a reputation, you'll be able to learn new moves (of which there are over 800 – all motion captured), upgrade your appearance, and receive challenges from other B-boys and girls, which in turn will see you visiting more of the game's 21 realistic venues.
Players will also be able to take on some of the licensed B-boys featured in the game, such as Kamel, Crumbs, Ivan "The Urban Action Figure", Hong10, Lillou, Mouse, and even Crazy Legs himself. Consultation with bona fide B-boy icons has ensured the experience is as authentic as the developers could deliver.
B-boy features some 40 licensed contemporary hip-hop and classic funk tracks, so there's plenty of dope beats to inspire you.
If it's instant gratification you're after, you can opt for arcade mode and face off against rival B-boys – or even engage in some multiplayer action.
The official site is well worth a visit. Hosted by Crazy Legs, it features an in-depth overview of the B-boy scene and provides an insight into all aspects of hip-hop culture. As well as a potted history and the obligatory downloads, you'll be treated to actual footage of B-boys and girls performing their eye-popping moves on the dance floor.
Watch out for B-Boy's arrival on 21st September, for both the PlayStation 2 and the PSP. Here are some screens from both formats:
