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Felony 11/79, also known as Runabout in Japan, is a vehicular action-adventure game that provides a unique blend of fast-paced driving and chaotic fun. Released in 1997 for the PlayStation, it was developed by Climax Entertainment and published by ASCII Entertainment, later known as Agetec. This game offers a distinctive twist on the racing genre, focusing on destruction and mayhem rather than precision driving or traditional racing mechanics.

Story

The narrative of Felony 11/79 is straightforward but engaging, placing players in the role of a professional getaway driver hired for a series of high-stakes heists. Set in a bustling urban environment, the game tasks players with executing a variety of missions ranging from stealing valuables to delivering contraband while evading the relentless pursuit of law enforcement.

Unlike many contemporary video games that emphasize deep storytelling and character development, Felony 11/79 opts for a simpler approach. The primary focus is on action and adrenaline-inducing scenarios. Players are given a series of mission briefings that outline their objectives, followed by a countdown to complete the tasks while navigating through various obstacles and avoiding police capture.

The minimalistic approach to storytelling allows players to dive directly into the heart of the action. The missions are linked by the overarching theme of criminal escapades, with each successful heist leading to increasingly challenging and daring tasks. This structure serves to maintain a fast-paced momentum throughout the game, ensuring players remain engaged and eager to see what challenges lie ahead.

Gameplay

Felony 11/79 stands out in the world of vehicular games due to its emphasis on destruction and chaos. The core gameplay mechanics focus on completing objectives while causing as much havoc as possible. Players are encouraged to drive recklessly, smash through obstacles, and use the environment to their advantage.

Mission Structure

The game is divided into a series of missions, each with specific objectives. These can range from robbing a bank to transporting illegal goods through heavily trafficked city streets. The catch? Each mission is time-limited, requiring players to balance speed with strategic planning. The missions are diverse in their objectives, keeping the gameplay fresh and challenging.

Driving Mechanics

Felony 11/79 features a variety of vehicles, each with unique handling characteristics. Players start with basic cars and gradually unlock more advanced vehicles by completing missions. The driving mechanics are arcade-like, prioritizing fun and excitement over realism. Vehicles can perform stunts such as barrel rolls and 360-degree spins, adding an extra layer of entertainment to the gameplay.

Destruction and Strategy

A key element of the gameplay is the ability to cause destruction. Players can plow through traffic, destroy roadblocks, and use shortcuts to outmaneuver the police. The more destruction caused, the higher the score, encouraging players to take risks and explore creative solutions to complete their objectives.

The game also incorporates a level of strategy. Certain missions require players to find hidden paths or shortcuts to evade the police more effectively. Success in Felony 11/79 often hinges on memorizing the city layout and using the environment to gain an edge over pursuers.

Graphics and Sound

Felony 11/79 was released during a time when the PlayStation was transitioning from 2D to 3D graphics, and the game reflects this era’s technological capabilities.

Visuals

The graphics are representative of late 90s PlayStation games, featuring polygonal models and textured environments. While not groundbreaking by today’s standards, the visuals were effective in delivering a sense of speed and chaos. The urban environments are detailed enough to provide a sense of immersion, with bustling streets, towering buildings, and destructible elements.

The vehicles are well-designed, with each one having a distinct appearance that corresponds to its performance attributes. The visual effects, such as explosions and debris, add to the game’s chaotic charm, emphasizing the destruction-focused gameplay.

Soundtrack and Audio Effects

The sound design of Felony 11/79 complements its high-energy gameplay. The soundtrack features upbeat and adrenaline-pumping music that enhances the game’s frenetic pace. Each track is carefully selected to match the intensity of the missions, keeping players engaged and focused.

The audio effects are equally important, with the roar of engines, screeching tires, and crashing metal creating an immersive experience. The police sirens serve as a constant reminder of the ever-present threat, adding tension to the gameplay. The sound design effectively captures the essence of a high-stakes getaway, contributing to the game’s overall atmosphere.

Legacy and Reception

Upon its release, Felony 11/79 received mixed reviews from critics. Some praised its innovative approach to the driving genre, highlighting its emphasis on destruction and non-traditional gameplay mechanics. The game’s unique mission structure and arcade-style driving were seen as refreshing alternatives to more conventional racing games.

However, the game also faced criticism for its lack of depth in storytelling and repetitive mission design. Some players found the controls to be challenging, with the arcade-style physics leading to unpredictable vehicle behavior. Despite these criticisms, Felony 11/79 developed a cult following among fans of the genre, who appreciated its emphasis on fun and chaos.

Influence on Future Games

Felony 11/79’s focus on destruction and mayhem paved the way for future games that emphasized similar mechanics. It can be seen as a precursor to titles like the Burnout series and Grand Theft Auto, which also incorporate elements of vehicular chaos and non-linear gameplay. The game’s legacy lies in its willingness to break from traditional racing norms and offer players a different kind of driving experience.

Conclusion

Felony 11/79 remains a notable entry in the world of vehicular action games, remembered for its unique approach to driving and mission design. While it may not have achieved mainstream success, its impact is evident in the way it influenced later games that embraced destruction and freedom of choice. For those seeking a nostalgic trip back to the 90s or an unconventional driving game filled with chaos, Felony 11/79 offers a memorable experience. Its blend of arcade-style gameplay, high-speed chases, and strategic destruction ensures it holds a special place in the history of video games.