Big Run (video game)

Jaleco

Industry	Video games
Founded	1974
Headquarters	Japan

Big Run is an arcade rally racing title launched by Jaleco in 1989. Utilizing pseudo-3D visuals, it holds the distinction of being the first game themed around the Dakar Rally. Players take control of a Porsche 959, modeled after the 1986 rally champion vehicle. The adversaries resemble Peugeot 205 T16 models, which secured victory in the 1987 Dakar Rally, along with occasional appearances by Mitsubishi Pajeros.

The franchise comprises two installments: Big Run – The Supreme 4WD Challenge – 11e Rallye (1989) and Big Run – The Supreme 4WD Challenge – 13e Rallye (1991, for Super Famicom). Versions for the Amiga and Atari ST platforms were developed by The Sales Curve.

Super Famicom version

Gameplay features a linear race course with turns set at specific angles, demanding precise left or right steering inputs. Upon completion, players are greeted with the message: "Those who have tasted the waters of Africa will always long to be here," accompanied by synthesized background music.

The race route stretches from Tripoli in Libya to the swamps of West Africa, including Dakar. Contact with obstacles or other vehicles inflicts damage on the player's car, potentially leading to component breakdowns. Players receive directional assistance from a team of navigators—one female and five male. Corporate sponsors, inspired by real-world companies, provide support throughout the journey. Managing mechanics and spare auto parts is essential as players traverse deserts, jungles, and nighttime environments over an extensive course.

Each segment must be completed within a time limit; failure results in immediate disqualification and game termination. Navigators offer guidance during dark stretches. Engine components require replacement approximately every . Players must strategically decide how many tires, engines, and brakes to carry, balancing necessary supplies against increased vehicle weight that slows speed.

Effective management of spare parts inventory while minimizing load is vital. In emergencies, time is lost waiting for repair trucks, though no monetary penalty occurs. Exhausting all spare parts causes the vehicle to stall, consuming valuable time and risking failure to complete the race.

Reception

In Japan, Game Machine listed Big Run as the second most successful upright arcade game in November 1989. It ranked as the fourth top-grossing dedicated arcade title in 1990, following Super Monaco GP, Winning Run Suzuka GP, and Special Criminal Investigation. In North America, it achieved the status of highest-earning new video game on the RePlay arcade charts in January 1990.

The arcade version received an 85% rating from Commodore User magazine.

External links

• Big Run (Commodore Amiga) at GameFAQs