While these don't affect the outcome of your primary mission, they are great fun and very difficult. Even though GTA2 is presented in a top-down 2D mode there is incredible depth and a 3D feel to this game. The zooming camera is partially responsible for this effect, but the detailed and dynamic lighting and colors contribute to the 3D effect more than anything. The matchbox-like cars and tiny people moving around the city all have a life of their own and go about their business until you interfere. Walk into traffic and some cars may stop or swerve but a bus or truck will likely hit you and send you to the hospital.
Special effects are excellent.
Explosions light up the surrounding buildings and police lights strobe their blue and red pulses as they speed through town. Drive down an alley and scrape the wall and sparks will fly off your car. Hit too many objects and smoke and eventually fire will billow from your vehicle. This is a good indicator to ditch your ride as it is about to explode. The top-down perspective also presents some annoying problems.