Gamelist / Run Like Hell

Ever since clocking The Incident, I’ve always been on the look out for a fast-paced action game that doesn’t involve much thinking. After months of trying out a selection of arcade games, I think I’ve finally found the one: Run Like Hell!

Run Like Hell! is an usual runner game. You play a white antagonist whose whole goal is to simply get away from tribal cannibals and avoid obstacles. You’re probably giving me a high-browed look right now and wondering if this game is politically correct.  In short, no. The characters are stereotypes from what looks like a throwback to 1950s and 60s cartoon, and the plot is pretty clichéd. Nevertheless, if you can look pass this un-PC plot, you storyline, then you might just enjoy the game.

What I like the most about Run Like Hell! is the simplicity. I don’t have to punch or kick my way through things or be in search for hidden objects. My character is constantly running and I just simply have a button each for jumping, sliding and accelerating. Easy.

In the story mode, you get to conquer different levels and unlock various mini games watch the comic cut scenes. Each level is very short and succinct and would only last you no more than a minute each. You can collect boosters for acceleration and also power ups for slowing down the cannibals by ‘zapping’ them.

If a minute on each level isn’t enough, then there’s always the endless mode. There five different endless modes basically with the same gameplay and concept, but with different settings. If you enjoy a bit of competition, then you’d appreciate that OpenFeint is also enabled in this game.

I have to admit that the game isn’t as easy as it looks. Even in easy mode on level 5, I was already experiencing mishaps of constantly tripping over and not having quick enough reflexes. One of the biggest challenges is actually not noticing hazards like a small brown rock that seems to just blend into the backdrop. However, after a few goes, you pretty much have the path memorized.

Run Like Hell! is a good game when you have a few minutes to spare and have two hands available. It does get quite repetitive very quickly and I would usually hit the boredom mark after playing it for 10 minutes.

Pros: Good graphics, OpenFeint enabled, quick and entertaining.
Cons: Repetitive and becomes mundane very quickly.