Summary
- Release Year: 2006
- Genres: Adventure, Hack and slash/Beat ’em up, Racing, Strategy
- Platforms: Legacy Mobile Device, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 2, Xbox
- Developers: General Arcade, The Collective
- Publishers: Atari, Inc., Devolver Digital
Marc Ecko’s Getting Up: Contents Under Pressure (2006): A Hidden Gem of Graffiti, Activism, and Urban Exploration
Released in 2006, Marc Ecko’s Getting Up: Contents Under Pressure is a unique and underrated gem that combines the worlds of graffiti, activism, and urban exploration. Players take on the role of Trane, a young graffiti artist with the ambition to become an “All City King” – the most respected graffiti artist in the city.
Gameplay
Getting Up is a third-person action game with a focus on graffiti and urban exploration. Players must navigate the city, avoiding the police and rival gangs, in order to find the best spots to tag. The game features a unique “Get IN, Get UP, and Get OUT” mechanic, which requires players to plan their tags carefully and execute them quickly.
In addition to tagging, players can also engage in combat with the police and rival gangs. Combat is fast-paced and brutal, and players must use a variety of improvised weapons to survive. Getting Up also features a unique “Intuition” system, which allows players to sense the best spots to tag and avoid danger.
Story
The story of Getting Up is set in the fictional city of New Radius, a metropolis plagued by corruption and oppression. Trane, the game’s protagonist, is a young graffiti artist who dreams of using his art to make a difference in the world. As Trane progresses through the game, he uncovers a deep, dark secret about the mayor of New Radius, and he must use his fighting talents and graffiti skills to expose the mayor’s corruption.
Themes
Getting Up is a game with a strong social message. The game explores themes of graffiti as activism, the power of art to change the world, and the importance of standing up to oppression. The game’s protagonist, Trane, is a complex and relatable character who embodies these themes.
Graphics and Sound
Getting Up features cel-shaded graphics that give the game a unique and stylized look. The game’s world is full of vibrant colors and detailed textures, and the character models are well-animated. The game’s soundtrack is also excellent, featuring a mix of hip-hop, rock, and electronic music.
Reception
Getting Up received mixed reviews upon release, with some critics praising the game’s unique gameplay and social message, while others criticized its repetitive missions and technical issues. However, the game has since gained a cult following among fans of graffiti, activism, and urban exploration.
Legacy
Getting Up is a unique and important game that deserves to be rediscovered by a new generation of gamers. The game’s innovative gameplay, strong social message, and excellent graphics and sound make it a hidden gem that is well worth checking out.
Tips for Playing
- Use your Intuition: The Intuition system is a powerful tool that can help you find the best spots to tag and avoid danger. Pay attention to the subtle cues that the game provides, and you’ll be able to navigate the city with ease.
- Plan your tags carefully: Before you start tagging, take a moment to plan your route. Consider the location of the police and rival gangs, and make sure you have a clear escape route.
- Use a variety of weapons: The game features a variety of improvised weapons, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Experiment with different weapons to find the ones that work best for you.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment: Getting Up is a game that rewards experimentation. Don’t be afraid to try different approaches to tagging and combat. You may be surprised at what you can achieve.
Conclusion
Marc Ecko’s Getting Up: Contents Under Pressure is a unique and underrated gem that combines the worlds of graffiti, activism, and urban exploration. The game features innovative gameplay, a strong social message, and excellent graphics and sound. If you’re looking for a game that is both challenging and rewarding, then you should definitely check out Getting Up.
Review Score
8/10