Short circuits 3/6: Time to cut loose with 'Footloose' remake

GAMES: Pedal to the 'Metal'

With the relaunch of "Twisted Metal" ($60 for PS3; rated Mature), Sony decided to stick with what works for the combat driving game -- primarily, tons of road rage and carnage. The game's biggest detriment is something only hard-core fans will notice. In previous games, all the characters had their own stories and resolutions when facing off in Calypso's famous tournament. Sadly, only three characters get the full story treatment this time. Also, drivers are tied to their particular cars, which is a weird sensation for fans watching Sweet Tooth drive in anything but his classic ice-cream truck. Nitpicks aside, the action is manic and impressive. Wide-open maps mean plenty of weapons are available, and the playing field is leveled. All of this sets the stage for the distorted glee that happens online with other players. The online experience is littered with glitches, but as those get fixed the asphalt slaughterhouse that is "Twisted Metal" will continue to entertain long after you're through picking shards of concrete from your teeth. -SCRIPPS HOWARD NEWS SERVICE