Overview
Released in 1986, this game is a pioneering racing simulation developed by Durell Software Ltd. It is notably recognized for its early open-world elements, setting it apart from many other games of its time as players navigate urban environments in a Lotus Esprit supercar.
Gameplay
The objective is to thwart a gang involved in illegal activities, requiring players to patrol city streets, intercept enemy vehicles, and prevent the delivery of contraband. The game presents a top-down view, offering a radar screen to help track the target vehicles in a bustling city full of traffic, pedestrians, and various urban fixtures.
Features
- Open-World Design: The game utilizes a large, free-roaming city map that gives players the liberty to choose routes strategically.
- Realistic Traffic Simulation: It features realistic traffic behaviors, allowing for a more immersive experience as players have to navigate through or avoid civilian vehicles.
- Complex AI: A sophisticated AI system where enemy cars blend in with normal traffic until they are detected and stopped by the player.
Legacy and Impact
During its release, this game gained attention for its advanced concept of open-world exploration within a driving game genre. Many regard it as a precursor to modern free-roam driving games, influencing later titles that adopted similar mechanics. Its ambitious design and early adoption of an open-world environment have earned it a place in the history of video gaming as a forward-thinking title.
Fun Fact
The game was particularly distinctive for featuring a car model, the Lotus Esprit, adding an element of realism and appeal for car enthusiasts of the era.
