If you're anything like me, the current recession has left you cooking cans of beans over a fire and making blankets out of your worthless stock portfolio, but that doesn't mean you can't game. Demos, my friend, will save you from financial ruin. Today's demo: Wheelman.

Ubisoft and Midway Newcastle are bringing a Wheelman demo to Xbox LIVE and the PlayStation Network. The Xbox version is available now and the PS3 version will be available on March 12.

According to Ubi and Midway, The Wheelman combines "spectacular Hollywood-style stunts with a gripping storyline," and provides " an adrenaline-fueled, cinematic thrill ride." Plus, it stars Vin Diesel as an undercover agent and highly skilled driver who infiltrates the Barcelona underworld to gather intelligence surrounding a covert heist. The Wheelman demo features a custom-made mission introducing the player to the special moves that only a master Wheelman can pull off. "Spin into a Cyclone while precision shooting at enemies or leap from vehicle to vehicle at breathtaking speeds to AirJack your enemy's car."

Once the player has completed the custom-made mission they will unlock two side missions: 'Made to Order' and 'Street Showdown.'  You'll also be able to walk and drive around part of virtual Barcelona.

The full Wheelman game is scheduled for a March 24, 2009 ship date in North America and a March 27, 2009, street date in Europe for the PS3, 360 and PC.

Check out the video below for a taste of the game: