Endless Runner Games: Origins and evolution
Endless runner games is a genre characterised by continuous movement and obstacle avoidance. They have captivated players for years with their simple yet addictive mechanics. From early pioneers to the now-iconic Google Chrome “No Internet Game”, these games have carved out a significant niche in the gaming industry. Let’s take a journey through the history of endless runner games and explore how they have evolved over time.
How did Endless Runner games first come about?
The endless runner genre can trace its gameplay mechanics back to the arcade era in 1974 with Speed Race by Taito. It was a racing game with a 90 second time limit. The games technically not a runner or endless but it introduced a constantly vertically moving game environment and which paved the way for them.
Jumper
The first endless runner game can be traced back to Jumper on the 100 Yen Disk No. 1 (1986) for the NEC PC-88. A game where you control a running blob that jumps over walls and collects hearts.
Canabalt
The second game, Canabalt (2009) is often credited with popularising the genre in the modern era. Created by Adam Saltsman, Canabalt was a minimalist, side-scrolling game that introduced players to the thrill of running endlessly through a dystopian cityscape, leaping from building to building as the environment crumbled around them. The player had to avoid bombs and falling from height to survive.
Canabalt was praised for its simplicity, with just one control—jump—and its ability to create a sense of urgency and tension. The game’s success paved the way for future endless runners, establishing core mechanics that would be emulated and expanded upon in the years to come.
The Rise of Mobile Gaming: Endless Runners Go Mainstream
The advent of smartphones and app stores brought endless runner games into the mainstream. The touch controls and pick-up-and-play nature of these games were a perfect fit for mobile devices, leading to a surge in popularity for the genre.
Temple Run
One of the most iconic examples of endless runner games on mobile phones is Temple Run (2011), developed by Imangi Studios. Temple Run has 3D graphics and a third-person perspective, allowing players to navigate treacherous terrain while collecting coins and power-ups. The gameplay mechanics included jump, slide and turn. The game has had numerous sequels including; Temple Run: Brave, Temple Run 2, Temple Run: Oz, Temple Run VR, Temple Run: Puzzle Adventure, Temple Run: Idle Explorers, Temple Run+ and Temple Run Legends. Its success demonstrated the potential of endless runners to captivate a broad audience, and it remains one of the most downloaded mobile games of all time.
Subway Surfers
Another notable endless runner title for mobile games is Subway Surfers (2012), developed by Kiloo and SYBO Games. Subway Surfers, took the endless runner formula and infused it with vibrant visuals, a catchy soundtrack, and a theme centred around youthful rebellion. The game introduced a hoverboard mechanic and regular content updates, keeping players engaged for years.
Subway Surfers has been extremely successful and has reached over one billion downloads on the Google Play Store.
Innovation and Experimentation: Expanding the Genre
Jetpack Joyride
As the genre matured, developers began experimenting with new mechanics and themes, pushing the boundaries of what an endless runner could be. Games like Jetpack Joyride (2011) by Halfbrick Studios added a layer of complexity by introducing various power-ups, missions, and customisation options. Also features included equipping gadgets and riding vehicles, adding depth to the otherwise straightforward gameplay.
Alto’s Adventure
Alto’s Adventure (2015) by Snowman took a different approach, emphasising aesthetic beauty and a serene atmosphere. The game featured a snowboarder gliding down a mountainside, with stunning visuals, a dynamic day-night cycle and weather effects. Alto’s Adventure was praised for its art style and relaxing gameplay.
Alto’s Adventure has proved endless runners can give more than just high-octane thrills they can give meditative experiences.
No Internet Game
“No Internet Game” sometimes known as “Chrome Dinosaur” and “Dinosaur Game” is one of the most recognisable endless runner games today. Launched in 2014, this simple game has become a beloved Easter egg for users of Google’s Chrome browser. When internet connectivity is lost, users are greeted by a pixelated T-Rex, which can be made to jump over cacti and dodge flying pterodactyls with a tap of the spacebar.
Despite its simplicity, the game has achieved a cult status, thanks in part to its accessibility and the humour of encountering it during internet outages. The game’s endless nature, combined with its basic graphics and charming premise, has made it a favourite time-killer for millions of users worldwide.
Read more about the game and how to play it here.
In 2018, Google celebrated No Internet Game’s 4th anniversary and its Chromes 10th Birthday by introducing new features in the game. Features included a birthday cake and a hat, further cementing its place in gaming lore. It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of endless runners that a game so basic can capture the imaginations of so many.
The Legacy and Future of Endless Runners
Endless runner games have come a long way since their inception. What began as simple, pixelated experiences have evolved into rich, visually stunning worlds with complex mechanics. The genre has proven to be incredibly versatile, capable of adapting to new technologies and player preferences.
The future of endless runners seems bright, with the potential for new innovations in gameplay, graphics, and integration. Emerging technologies like augmented reality could be an exciting addition. As long as there are players seeking quick, engaging gameplay experiences, endless runners will continue to be a staple in the gaming landscape.
Conclusion
The history of endless runner games is a testament to the power of simplicity in game design. From the early days of Canabalt to the ubiquitous No Internet Game, these games have captured the hearts of millions by offering fast-paced, accessible fun. As the genre continues to evolve, it will be exciting to see where endless runners will take us next. Whether you’re dodging obstacles in a 3D jungle, gliding down a snowy mountain, or jumping over cacti as a pixelated dinosaur, one thing is certain: the endless runner is here to stay.
References
Chrome Dino (online in Google Chrome browser). chrome://dino
100 Yen Disk No. 1 (PC88) (online). http://lunaticobscurity.blogspot.com/2016/06/100-yen-disk-no-1-pc88.html?m=1
Canabalt (online). https://canabalt.com
Temple Run (online). https://imangistudios.com
Subway Surfers (online). https://sybogames.com/subway-surfers/
Jetpack Joyride Classic (online). https://www.halfbrick.com/games/jetpack-joyride-classic
Alto’s Adventure (online). https://altosadventure.com/press/spiritofthemountain/
