Out Run was a major hit on the arcades in 1986 and was notable for its pioneering graphics and music. Due to the game's popularity, it was converted in many home 8/16bits platforms, from 1987 and forward.
Review
STORY / GAMEPLAY You drive your convertible sports car (that looks like a Ferrari Testarossa) having your girlfriend on the passenger's seat. Note: This game did not have an official Ferrari license (unlike its sequel Out Run 2, released many years later). Starting the race at a coastal road, you must pass through four checkpoints completing five laps within a set time limit. Before every checkpoint, there is a "fork" allowing you to enter one of the two different race routes. The game is notable for its innovative hardware of the time (including a mechanically moving cabinet), the fantastic graphics and music, the option to select the soundtrack of your choice as well as the opportunity to change routes. The aim is to race as fast as you can and change level before the time runs out. If you do this, your time will be extended and you'll continue racing on the next track.
GRAPHICS / SOUND All 8bit conversions are mediocre. The C64 port is playable as it has way smoother scrolling than the CPC (which is almost unplayable!) and some nice visual details taken from the original. But still the C64 conversions remains mediocre. The game's sound is great though, offering all the original tunes along with some catchy sound effects during gameplay. Actually, the C64 conversion is the best among the 8bit home computer ports!