Summary
- Release Year: 1976
- Genres: Arcade, Racing, Simulator
- Platforms: Arcade, AY-3-8760
- Publishers: Atari, Sears
Stunt Cycle (1976): The Original Extreme Sports Game
Released in 1976, Stunt Cycle is an arcade classic that combines racing and stunts in a unique and challenging way. Developed by Atari, Stunt Cycle was one of the first games to feature a simulated motorcycle steering column, which gave players a more immersive experience.
The game is played from a first-person perspective, and the player controls a motorcycle rider as he races around a track filled with obstacles and jumps. The goal of the game is to complete each track as quickly as possible, while also performing stunts to earn bonus points.
Stunt Cycle is known for its challenging gameplay and realistic physics. The motorcycle controls are very sensitive, and it takes some practice to master the art of riding the bike smoothly. The tracks are also very difficult, and there are many obstacles to avoid, such as ramps, jumps, and logs.
Despite the challenge, Stunt Cycle is a very rewarding game. The feeling of accomplishment after completing a difficult track is immense, and the stunts are very satisfying to pull off. The game also has a great sense of speed, and it’s easy to get lost in the adrenaline rush of racing around the track.
Stunt Cycle was a critical and commercial success, and it helped to popularize the racing genre. The game was ported to a number of home consoles, and it remains a popular classic today.
Gameplay
Stunt Cycle is played from a first-person perspective, and the player controls a motorcycle rider as he races around a track filled with obstacles and jumps. The goal of the game is to complete each track as quickly as possible, while also performing stunts to earn bonus points.
The player controls the motorcycle using a simulated steering column mounted on the control panel. The right side handle grip is twisted for acceleration, and the left side handle grip is used to brake. The player can also lean the motorcycle to the left or right by moving the steering column.
The tracks in Stunt Cycle are very challenging, and there are many obstacles to avoid, such as ramps, jumps, and logs. The player must use all of their skills to navigate the tracks safely and quickly.
In addition to racing, the player can also perform stunts to earn bonus points. Stunts can be performed by jumping over obstacles, wheelieing, and stoppieing. The more difficult the stunt, the more points the player will earn.
Graphics and Sound
Stunt Cycle’s graphics are simple but effective. The game is played on a black and white CRT monitor, and the tracks are represented by a series of lines and shapes. The motorcycle is also represented by a simple sprite.
Despite the simple graphics, Stunt Cycle is a very immersive game. The realistic physics and responsive controls make the player feel like they are actually riding a motorcycle. The sound effects are also very good, and they help to create a sense of speed and excitement.
Legacy
Stunt Cycle was a critical and commercial success, and it helped to popularize the racing genre. The game was ported to a number of home consoles, and it remains a popular classic today.
Stunt Cycle has been cited as an influence on a number of later racing games, such as Excitebike and Road Rash. The game’s unique blend of racing and stunts has also been copied by a number of other games, such as Stuntman and Trials HD.
Stunt Cycle is a true classic of the arcade era, and it remains a fun and challenging game to play today. The game’s simple graphics and addictive gameplay make it a great choice for gamers of all ages.
Review Score
8.5/10
Art
Cover Art
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