Jet Grind Radio

About

Jet Grind Radio is a 3D platformer set in a neon-drenched Tokyo where skating crews battle for territory. You control a member of the GGs, a group using magnetic-skateboards to outpace cops, graffiti rivals, and rival gangs. Missions involve tagging walls, defending turf, and racing through open streets while avoiding patrols. Combat is simple but flashy, relying on quick grinds and sprays. The game’s rhythm-driven movement and vibrant visuals create a breakneck experience that mixes action with style. The game stands out for its bold, cartoonish art direction and infectious hip-hop soundtrack. Ten playable characters each bring distinct looks and moves, from a cyborg with a laser pointer to a girl who throws confetti. With 18 missions and open-ended exploration, it leans into chaos without sacrificing polish. Released in 2000, it’s a cult favorite remembered for its energy and refusal to take itself seriously. Its influence lingers in later games that embrace speed and attitude over realism.

Storyline

DJ Professor K broadcasts the Jet Set Radio pirate radio station to gangs of youths who roam Tokyo-to, skating and spraying graffiti. One gang, the GGs, competes for turf with the all-female Love Shockers in the shopping districts of Shibuya-Cho, the cyborg Noise Tanks in the Benten entertainment district, and the kaiju-loving Poison Jam in the Kogane dockyard. The authorities, led by Captain Onishima, pursue the gangs with riot police and military armaments. After the GGs defeat Poison Jam, Noise Tanks, and Love Shockers in turf wars, they each drop a piece of a mysterious vinyl record. Professor K says that the mysterious vinyl has the power to summon a demon. The GGs are joined by Combo and Cube, who explain that their hometown, Grind City, has been overtaken by the Rokkaku business conglomerate. They ask the GGs to help them to free their friend, Coin, who has been captured by the Rokkaku. The Rokkaku pursue the GGs and steal the vinyl record. Poison Jam explains that the Rokkaku CEO, Goji Rokkaku, plans to use the record to make a contract with the demon and take over the world. The GGs defeat Goji in the rooftop of his headquarters by destroying his turntable. Freedom is returned to the streets of Tokyo-to. Combo reveals that The Devil's Contract was an old record with no demonic powers and that wealth had driven Goji to insanity.