In 1986, the video game industry witnessed the release of a title that would change the racing genre forever: Out Run. Developed by sega under the direction of renowned video game designer Yu Suzuki, Out Run It stood out not only for its innovative gameplay, but also for its advanced graphics and sound for the time.
Yu Suzuki, known for his work on other hits from sega as Hang-On and After Burnerhad a clear vision for Out Run. He wanted to create a driving experience that captured the excitement and freedom of a road trip, something that had not been achieved in video games until then. Suzuki and his team traveled to Europe to capture the essence of its landscapes and roads, drawing inspiration from countries like Italy and Spain. This dedication to realism and authentic atmosphere became one of the pillars of the game’s success.
Hardware was also a crucial factor in the development of Out Run. The game used the engine Sega System 16, which allowed impressive fluidity and graphic detail for its time. Additionally, the arcade booth Out Run It was equipped with a steering wheel, pedals and a moving seat, offering an unprecedented immersive experience.
Out Run It did not follow a traditional narrative, but instead offered an open driving experience. The player takes control of a convertible Ferrari Testarossa, accompanied by a passenger, usually a blonde who represented the ideal of companionship on a road trip.
The gameplay of Out Run It was revolutionary for its time. Unlike other racing games that followed closed tracks, Out Run It featured a branching route system, allowing players to choose their path at various points along the route. Each choice led to different landscapes, from sunny beaches to snowy mountains, providing a sense of freedom and exploration. Players had to complete each section before time ran out, facing traffic and obstacles that increased the difficulty.
The game also stood out for its soundtrack, composed by Hiroshi Kawaguchi. Players could choose from multiple music tracks at the start of the game, an innovative feature that added an extra level of customization and enjoyment to the experience.
Out Run It was an immediate commercial and critical success. It was acclaimed for its stunning graphics, immersive sound and the feeling of speed and freedom it offered. In arcades, it became one of the most popular machines, and its success led to numerous conversions to consoles and computers of the time, including versions for the Sega Master System, Genesis and Commodore 64.
The legacy of Out Run lasts until today. The game not only set new standards for racing games, but also influenced a generation of designers and developers. Its focus on player experience and technological innovation served as inspiration for many subsequent titles.
