Mark Ecko’s Getting Up: Contents Under Pressure

(Xbox, PS2; $49.99, limited edition- $59.99; Rated M for Blood/Language/Violence; atari.com/gettingup)

(four stars)

Beneath one of the most bloated titles in the history of videogaming, lies a brand new idea from the mind of “urban” clothing designer Mark Ecko. Ecko’s story follows the subculture of graffiti artists in the not-too-distant future, and their struggle against the oppressive corporation/government that has stuffed out all freedom of speech from society. Protagonist, “TRANE,” is about to expose the corruption the only way he knows how- with a can of paint.

People who are turned off by the awkward title will never know the great qualities of “Getting Up.” The game isn’t nearly the urban-actioneer one would expect. Instead, the game plays out like a modern-day “Prince of Persia,” requiring intellect and problem-solving skills throughout the environmental platform puzzles. Sure, TRANE may have to ultimately slap his tag on a freeway sign, but getting across traffic, shimmying across pipes, and making death-defying leaps to get to the sign is all part of the challenge.

Like “Prince of Persia,” “Getting Up” has combat against rival gang members and those squares working for The Man. The combat feels clumsy, as the response between pressing a button and TRANE throwing a punch feels way too delayed. Although TRANE can grapple, spin kick, and even use a lighted spray can as a flamethrower, the combat is the weakest part of the game- a disappointment, especially coming from developers such as The Collective who have made their names on action/combat titles (“Indiana Jones” and “Buffy the Vampire Slayer,” for those of you playing at home).

One of the best aspects of the game is its soundtrack that is licensed up the wazoo with hip-hop to suit every situation. An all-star cast featuring, among others, George Hamilton and Adam “Batman” West is nothing to sniff at, either.

The biggest irony of the game- yes, bigger than doing an “urban” story with George Hamilton and Adam West- is the restrictiveness of the graffiti that players can choose to use. Tags are set to a select number, and more can be unlocked as players proceed through the game, but oddly, there is no option to create your own tag. It would seem the developers should have allowed gamers to release their inner-vandal. After all, shouldn’t a game based on free speech allow gamers to unleash theirs against the game? If nothing more, it would help the player “become” the rebel protagonist, rather than filling the shoes of some guy named “TRANE.”

At any rate, if a chilled-out vibe is what you need after all those shooters out there, pick up “Getting Up” for a fresh feel. While you’re at it, grab the “limited edition” which comes in a way cool metal tin, DVD soundtrack, and a silver Sharpie for your own self-expression outside the game.