GSI: Game Scene Investigation: Burnout Paradise demo

The demo for EA’s Burnout Paradise is without doubt the biggest demo of December, so we thought we’d take a closer look. Our investigation has uncovered numerous things that you can do in the demo that might not be obvious – or simply a few things we thought were quite amusing.

Smile, you’re on CCTV

OK, the game tells you to use your LIVE Vision camera or PlayStation Eye but it’s used so well that we had to mention it anyway. Take down a friend in the online portion of the demo (which is seamlessly accessed from the in-game menu) and a snap-shot is taken of their reaction. After a while taking the funniest mugshot becomes a game in itself, complete with props, extra appearing characters and action shots.

Use split ramps to barrel roll

Off the beaten track you’ll find plenty of ramps. Normal ramps are good for getting big air, but split ramps allow you to perform stunt-man-like barrel rolls. Simply drive up them, ideally at top speed while boosting, hit the e-brake (the hand brake) and turn. Use the left analogue stick to control the spin and attempt to land on four wheels.

Gotta smash ’em all

It’s only a demo, but Criterion has included numerous things to smash, or collect if you prefer a less violent term. Scattered around the demo area are 15 Burnout billboards and numerous closed off roads with yellow signs on them. Smash through them all to get the most out of the demo. By the time you’ve found them all the game might be available at retail.

Power Parking

You see those cars parked alongside the road at various locations around the demo map? They’re not just there for decoration. Speed up to them, jam the e-brake and powerslide into a parking space between two parked cars. Screw up completely and you’ll be denied a score, but land in what could be considered a parking space and you’ll be scored out of 100. How many parking spaces can you find?

Classical music relaxation

Racing in Burnout Paradise is stressful – that’s what makes it so entertaining – but Criterion has got your back. Feeling a little like everyone is out to get you? Fed up with having to pose for a mugshot? Is the announcer getting on your nerves. Calm down. Simply pull over to the side of the road and wait. Within a few seconds the screen will drain of colour and some soothing classical music will kick in. When you’re ready, pull away and smash your friends into oblivion.

For more on Burnout Paradise check out our recent preview and interview.