Crazy Taxi is an arcade-like racer where you play as a taxi driver who must navigate through crowded streets, sidewalks, and even underwater to deliver passengers on time. The courses are set in cities with heavy traffic and pedestrians that can't be run over - they simply dive away. Your goal is to get as many customers to their destination in time.
The gameplay involves driving recklessly while encouraging players to disregard traffic rules and take risks for extra tips. Customers have personal timers, and the reward at the end of a ride depends on how much time is left. The city features slopes, jumps, and loose driving physics - with no damage possible to your car. You can perform special tricks like crazy drifts and boosts using the gears.
The game offers various modes, including Arcade mode with a timer, Original mode, Crazy Box, and options to play for fixed minutes or earn licenses based on performance. There are four cabs and drivers to choose from, each with unique statistics and attitudes while racing. The game's soundtrack features The Offspring and Bad Religion.