Summary
- Release Year: 1989
- Genres: Racing, Shooter
- Platforms: Amiga, Arcade, Atari Lynx, Commodore C64/128/MAX, DOS
- Developers: Atari Games
- Publishers: Atari Games, Domark Software, Tengen
S.T.U.N. Runner: A Timeless Classic of Time Trial Racing
Released in 1989, S.T.U.N. Runner is a futuristic time trial racing game that quickly became a classic. Developed by Atari Games and published by Atari Corporation, S.T.U.N. Runner was one of the first games to use Gouraud shading, a rendering technique that creates smooth, realistic curves on 3D objects. This gave the game a cutting-edge look that set it apart from other racing games of the time.
Gameplay
S.T.U.N. Runner is a time trial racing game in which the player controls a futuristic car and must navigate through a series of tracks in the fastest possible time. The tracks are filled with obstacles, such as other cars, barriers, and jumps, that the player must avoid or navigate through. The player can also use power-ups, such as the Shockwave and Boost, to help them overcome obstacles and achieve faster times.
One of the unique features of S.T.U.N. Runner is its focus on time trials. Rather than racing against other cars, the player races against the clock. This creates a sense of urgency and excitement, as the player tries to beat their best time and achieve the highest possible score.
Tracks
S.T.U.N. Runner features a total of 16 tracks, each with its own unique layout and challenges. The tracks are set in a variety of futuristic environments, such as neon-lit cities, icy wastelands, and alien planets. Each track has its own unique set of obstacles and power-ups, which the player must learn to master in order to achieve the best possible time.
Cars
There are a total of 8 cars to choose from in S.T.U.N. Runner. Each car has its own unique stats, such as speed, acceleration, and handling. The player can choose the car that best suits their driving style and the track they are racing on.
Power-Ups
There are a variety of power-ups that the player can collect during races. These power-ups can give the player a temporary advantage, such as increased speed, invulnerability, or the ability to destroy all obstacles on the screen. The player must use these power-ups wisely in order to achieve the best possible time.
Legacy
S.T.U.N. Runner was a critical and commercial success upon its release. It was praised for its innovative gameplay, stunning graphics, and catchy soundtrack. The game has been ported to a variety of platforms over the years, and it remains a popular choice for retro gaming enthusiasts.
S.T.U.N. Runner has had a lasting impact on the racing game genre. Its focus on time trials and its use of power-ups have become staples of the genre. The game has also been cited as an inspiration for other classic racing games, such as Wipeout and F-Zero.
Conclusion
S.T.U.N. Runner is a timeless classic of time trial racing. Its fast-paced gameplay, challenging tracks, and iconic soundtrack make it a must-play for fans of the genre. Whether you’re a retro gaming enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, S.T.U.N. Runner is a game that you should definitely check out.
Review Score
8/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
