Monday, July 22, 2024

Atomic Runner for Genesis


Image: MobyGames

Atomic Runner

Not an ambirunner


Genre: action - gun

Publisher: Data East

Year: 1992

System: Genesis


Gameplay Score: 1

Gameplay Notes:

The weirdest movement mechanic. If you do nothing your character runs just slightly faster than the slow scrolling of the screen. Holding left causes you to stop but you can't move left, so anything behind you can't be reached. Even when jumping, you can only move to the right. Jump is very high and you float excessively which makes each jump a tactical decision you might regret. Played quite a while and never got used to the controls and certainly didn't enjoy them. It's different but not fun Several fun weapons like a boomerang and a spread shoot of mace balls that return to you are the game's only saving grace. Rapid fire is also a welcome feature


Level Design Score: 3

Level Design Notes:

Lots of flying enemies that shoot hard to avoid projectiles. Endless pits and barriers to jump over. Nothing terribly interesting.


Theme Score: 2

Theme Notes:

The Deathatarians (yeah, stupid name) have come to take over the Earth and oh they also kidnapped your sister. Pretty hokey, B-movie sci-fi stuff.


Art Style Score: 3

Art Style Notes:

Teeny tiny sprites. Fluid animation but again, tiiiiny sprites. Weapons look nice and don't flicker or cause slowdown. Very simple and limited color palette. Everything is grey and brown Some parallax scrolling


Audio Score: 3

Audio Notes:

I like the upbeat music. It's almost too fast given the slow scrolling of the gameplay. Weapon sounds are enjoyable.


Overall Score: 39

Review ID: 756



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