Marc Eckō's Getting Up: Contents Under Pressure

The music in the game is widely praised, with many reviewers highlighting its exceptional soundtrack that features a mix of hip-hop, funk, soul, and rock, including contributions from notable artists like RJD2, Mobb Deep, and Jane's Addiction. The soundtrack not only enhances the game's atmosphere but also resonates with players, often evoking nostalgia and shaping their musical tastes. Despite some technical issues, the music remains a standout element, making it a compelling reason to experience the game.

The gameplay of this game is a mixed bag, with many players noting its janky mechanics and outdated graphics, yet still finding it enjoyable and unique, particularly due to its graffiti elements and parkour features. While some aspects, like combat and controls, can be frustrating and repetitive, the overall experience is often described as fun and nostalgic, appealing especially to fans of hip-hop culture. Despite its flaws, the game successfully combines various gameplay styles, including action, stealth, and exploration, making it a memorable title for many players.

The graphics of the game are widely regarded as outdated, often described as reminiscent of PS2-era visuals, with frequent bugs and flickering issues that detract from the experience. Despite these flaws, many players appreciate the unique art style, particularly the graffiti elements, which are considered charming and culturally significant. Overall, while the graphics may not meet modern standards, they do not significantly hinder gameplay enjoyment for those willing to overlook them.

The game is plagued by numerous stability issues, including frequent crashes, visual glitches, and problematic controls that hinder gameplay. While some players find it enjoyable despite these bugs, many express frustration over the game's performance, particularly in the PC port, which is described as a "buggy mess." Overall, while the game retains nostalgic value, its stability problems significantly detract from the experience.

The game's atmosphere is widely praised for its immersive qualities, effectively capturing the essence of street culture and graffiti art through a combination of exquisite art styles, an enchanting soundtrack, and strong voice acting. Reviewers highlight the unique and engaging environment, particularly for a game from 2006, noting that the music and sound design significantly enhance the overall experience. Despite some criticisms regarding gameplay mechanics, the atmospheric elements are consistently regarded as the standout feature that draws players in.

Players find the grinding aspect of the game to be largely tedious and frustrating, often citing awkward controls and a slow pace that feels outdated. While some moments can be enjoyable, the overall experience is marred by the need for excessive repetition and a cumbersome control scheme, particularly in the PC port. Many reviewers suggest that the game's enjoyment heavily depends on the player's approach and willingness to endure the grind.

The humor in the game is characterized by a blend of absurdity and dark comedy, as players navigate the life of a street artist who engages in both graffiti and violent confrontations. Players find amusement in the protagonist's antics, such as humorous graffiti and comical interactions with rival gangs and law enforcement, creating a lighthearted contrast to the game's more serious themes. Overall, the game successfully combines funny moments with creative gameplay, making it an entertaining experience for those who appreciate a humorous take on street art culture.

The game's optimization has been widely criticized, with players reporting significant issues such as stuttering, flashing textures, and a poorly functioning camera that detracts from the overall experience. Many users express frustration over the game's performance on PC, suggesting it feels unrefined compared to its original console version, and call for a remaster to unlock its true potential. Overall, the consensus is that the game is not well-optimized for PC, leading to a disappointing experience.

Many users express a longing for games that evoke a strong sense of emotional connection, highlighting a desire to feel immersed in significant narratives and experiences within the game world. This sentiment reflects a nostalgia for the impactful storytelling that once made players feel integral to the game's universe.