S.T.U.N. Runner

Game review

S.T.U.N. Runner, released in 1990 for DOS, is a captivating adaptation of Atari's groundbreaking arcade racing game from 1989. Standing for "Spread Tunnel Underground Network," S.T.U.N. Runner blends elements of high-speed rollercoaster racing, the thrill of bobsledding, and the intensity of shoot'em up games into a unique futuristic racing experience.

The game distinguishes itself with its use of polygonal 3D graphics, a notable technical achievement at the time. While the graphics offer a sense of speed and immerse players in its futuristic setting, they fall short of being entirely smooth, which slightly detracts from the gameplay experience. Despite this, S.T.U.N. Runner remains an engaging and challenging game, requiring players to meticulously navigate courses and manage their time effectively to succeed.

One of the core challenges in S.T.U.N. Runner is the necessity of taking perfect routes and collecting speed boosts and other power-ups. These are crucial for staying within the strict time limits imposed on each track. This requirement adds a strategic layer to the game, pushing players to balance speed with precision.

While it may not have achieved the arcade perfection of its original Atari version, the DOS adaptation of S.T.U.N. Runner is commendable for its era. It captures much of the excitement and challenge of the arcade experience, even if it doesn't quite match the innovation or longevity of other futuristic racing classics like Powerdrome. Nonetheless, S.T.U.N. Runner was significantly ahead of its time, offering a racing experience that was unparalleled in the early '90s.

Despite not being the most innovative or enduring title among futuristic racing games, S.T.U.N. Runner's blend of racing and shooting mechanics, combined with its attempt at 3D graphics, secured its place as a noteworthy game of its period. Its unique gameplay and aesthetic make it a fascinating piece of racing game history, appreciated by those who remember the era of arcade dominance and the early days of PC gaming adaptations. For fans of retro gaming and the history of video games, S.T.U.N. Runner serves as a memorable journey back to a time when the fusion of genres and new graphical technologies were paving the way for the future of gaming.