Summary
- Release Year: 1986
- Genres: Platform
- Platforms: Acorn Electron, BBC Microcomputer System
- Developers: Reflections Interactive
- Publishers: Superior Software Ltd.
Stryker’s Run: A Classic Side-Scrolling Action Game
Released in 1986, Stryker’s Run is a 2D side-scrolling action game that puts you in the role of Commander John Stryker of the Allied Nations. The game is set during a futuristic war, and Stryker has obtained plans of an attack by the enemy Volgans. Your objective is to escape with the plans and reach the Allied headquarters.
Stryker is armed with a laser pistol and grenades, and he can also commandeer aircraft that can be used until the fuel runs out. The Volgans have a wide variety of weapons including rifles, pistols, grenades, machine guns, mortars, mines, helicopter gunships, rocket launchers and SAM missiles.
As well as enemies, the game features allied soldiers who will fire at the enemies but can get caught in crossfire. The game takes place entirely on one level on a scrolling landscape.
Gameplay
Stryker’s Run is a fast-paced and challenging game. The player must constantly be on the move, shooting enemies and dodging their fire. The game’s difficulty is increased by the fact that the Volgans are constantly respawning.
The player must also be careful not to get caught in crossfire from allied soldiers. The game’s one level is very long, and it can take some time to reach the Allied headquarters. However, the game is broken up into checkpoints, so the player does not have to start over from the beginning if they die.
Graphics and Sound
Stryker’s Run’s graphics are colorful and detailed for the time. The game’s characters and environments are well-drawn, and the animation is smooth. The game’s sound effects are also well done, and the music is catchy and exciting.
Reception
Stryker’s Run was a critical and commercial success. The game was praised for its fast-paced gameplay, challenging difficulty, and impressive graphics and sound. Stryker’s Run was also one of the first games to feature a scrolling landscape, which was a major innovation at the time.
The game has been ported to a number of different platforms over the years, and it remains popular with retro gamers today. Stryker’s Run is a classic side-scrolling action game that is still fun to play today.
Legacy
Stryker’s Run is one of the most influential side-scrolling action games of all time. The game’s fast-paced gameplay, challenging difficulty, and impressive graphics and sound set a new standard for the genre. Stryker’s Run also helped to popularize the use of scrolling landscapes in video games.
The game has been cited as an inspiration for a number of other side-scrolling action games, including Contra and Metal Slug. Stryker’s Run is a true classic that still stands up today as one of the best side-scrolling action games ever made.
Tips for Playing Stryker’s Run
Here are a few tips for playing Stryker’s Run:
- Use cover. The Volgans are constantly firing, so it’s important to use cover to avoid getting hit.
- Be aware of your surroundings. The game’s one level is very large, and it’s easy to get lost. Be sure to pay attention to your surroundings so you don’t get turned around.
- Don’t be afraid to use grenades. Grenades are a great way to take out groups of enemies.
- Commandeer aircraft. Aircraft can be a great way to get around the level quickly and to avoid enemy fire.
- Be patient. Stryker’s Run is a challenging game, but it’s also a very rewarding one. Be patient and don’t give up, and you’ll eventually reach the Allied headquarters.
Conclusion
Stryker’s Run is a classic side-scrolling action game that is still fun to play today. The game’s fast-paced gameplay, challenging difficulty, and impressive graphics and sound make it a must-play for fans of the genre. Whether you’re a retro gamer or a newcomer to the world of side-scrolling action games, Stryker’s Run is a game that you should definitely check out.
Review Score
8/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
