Night-Runners

Night-Runners is a game hailed as a spiritual successor of Need for Speed: Underground 2. It also focuses on illegal races of tuned cars in the open world. The project was initiated by a lone developer, Jem Byrne, operating under the "banner" of Planet Jem, who gave it momentum, gathering a large group of supporters on Patreon.

Gameplay

The action of Night-Runners takes place at the turn of the millennium in Japan, in an open world composed mainly of highways and other expressways connecting several cities. Faced with the necessity of paying off a friend's debt, we buy a used car and set off in search of rivals whom we could challenge to night duels, to earn money from bets and reputation. The maps are divided into areas controlled by different gangs and other groups.

The driving model is arcade, but controlling more powerful cars requires skill. A cockpit view and manual gearbox with a clutch are available. The game also adds some realism by forcing the player to perform engine repairs, refueling or oil changes. We do this in the garage seen from the FPP view (the same applies to parking lots where racing enthusiasts meet).

The creators also took a meticulous approach to upgrading cars. We can replace both mechanical components (especially engine parts that improve performance), as well as components that affect the appearance of the car - not only external, but also internal (like the steering wheel or the floor mats). Unnecessary items can be sold.

The cars included in Night-Runners are not licensed, but it's easy to recognize real life models. The car list is composed mainly of the iconic Japanese machines, such as the Nissan 180SX or the Nissan Skyline R34. There's also room for "imported" vehicles, like the Porsche 911 (964).

Technology

In addition to vintage cars, the audiovisual setting of Night-Runners also refers to the turn of the millennium. The overall graphic quality is reminiscent of PlayStation 2-era racing games, and there are also suggestive screen filters. The visuals build a specific, somewhat dark atmosphere of the racing "underground", where we meet hooded men with pixelated faces (this effect was also applied to the license plates of vehicles).