Crash Time III, developed by Synetic and published by Kalypso Media Digital, is the third installment in the "Crash Time" series, released on November 25, 2009. Building upon the foundations laid by its predecessors, the game offers an expansive open-world environment, a variety of vehicles, and a storyline inspired by the German television series Alarm für Cobra 11. While it may not have garnered widespread critical acclaim, it has found a dedicated fanbase who appreciate its unique blend of racing and action elements.

The game's narrative centers around Semir Gerkhan and Ben Jäger, two Autobahn police officers who uncover a terrorist plot targeting an economic conference. As they delve deeper into the investigation, they encounter various challenges and adversaries, leading to high-speed chases and intense confrontations. The storyline, while not groundbreaking, provides a solid framework for the game's missions and activities. Players can engage in over 70 missions, ranging from escorting dignitaries to thwarting criminal activities, all set within a 32 km² open-world cityscape.

One of the standout features of Crash Time III is its expansive open world, which includes more than 200 km of city streets and autobahn. The environment is designed to be fully explorable, allowing players to drive freely between missions. The game's dynamic pathfinding system ensures that AI opponents navigate the environment intelligently, adapting to road conditions and traffic patterns. This adds a layer of realism and unpredictability to the gameplay, as players must anticipate and react to the movements of both allies and adversaries.

In terms of gameplay mechanics, Crash Time III offers a variety of vehicles, including police cars, sports cars, and even airport fire engines. Each vehicle has distinct handling characteristics, requiring players to adapt their driving style accordingly. The game's physics engine provides a satisfying sense of speed and impact, with vehicles exhibiting realistic damage and handling responses. The inclusion of a scoring system, which rates missions based on factors like time, damage, and efficiency, encourages players to replay missions and strive for better performance.

Visually, the game presents a detailed and immersive world, with day-night cycles and varying weather conditions that affect driving dynamics. The graphics, while not cutting-edge by modern standards, effectively convey the game's setting and atmosphere. The sound design complements the visuals, with engine noises, sirens, and ambient sounds enhancing the immersive experience. The voice acting, primarily in German with English subtitles, adds authenticity to the narrative, though some players may find the performances somewhat stiff.

Despite its strengths, Crash Time III is not without its flaws. Some players have reported issues with the game's AI, noting that opponents can sometimes exhibit erratic behavior, leading to frustrating encounters. Additionally, the game's linear mission structure and repetitive objectives may detract from its long-term appeal. However, for those seeking a nostalgic racing experience with a touch of action and exploration, Crash Time III offers a compelling package.

In conclusion, Crash Time III delivers an engaging mix of racing and action, set within a vast open world. While it may not rival the polish and depth of other titles in the genre, it offers a unique experience for fans of the series and newcomers alike. With its expansive environments, diverse vehicles, and action-packed missions, Crash Time III stands as a testament to Synetic's commitment to delivering entertaining and immersive racing experiences.

Rating: 8/10