Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

Run the Gauntlet offers a diverse set of challenges drawn directly from the ITV television show, tasking players with mastering buggies, speedboats, quad bikes, jetskis and a variety of inflatables. Each event requires you to navigate horizontally and vertically scrolling levels, switching seamlessly between land and water. This variety keeps the action fresh, as you race against the clock while avoiding environmental hazards and cleverly placed enemy droids.

The core mechanics are straightforward but demand precision. Vehicle handling changes noticeably between buggies on rough terrain and the more slippery dynamics of watercraft, giving each segment a distinct feel. Your reflexes are put to the test when evading mines, dodging floating debris or outmaneuvering hostile droids that patrol the course. These threats ramp up in intensity over the levels, so edge-of-your-seat tension is guaranteed.

Adding to the challenge is The Hill—an assault course sequence that strips away your motorized advantages and pits you against timed obstacles on foot. It’s a great change of pace, highlighting agility and timing rather than raw speed. Whether vaulting over barriers or scrambling up ramps, The Hill brings a satisfying break from vehicle segments and reinforces the show’s “ultimate competitor” theme.

Graphics

On cassette-based hardware, Run the Gauntlet’s visuals are surprisingly crisp. Vehicle sprites are well-defined against varied backdrops, and you can distinguish sand dunes, rocky outcrops and churning waves at a glance. The scrolling is smooth in both axes, which helps maintain immersion even when the action heats up.

Water levels stand out with subtle ripple effects that add depth to speedboat and jetski events. Though color palettes are limited by the platform, clever shading and sprite layering give a convincing sense of motion. You’ll appreciate how splashes and wake trails follow your craft, emphasizing both speed and direction.

Enemy droids and in-built hazards are clearly marked, preventing frustration when hazards appear suddenly. The Hill sequence swaps in new textures—mannequins, padded walls and climbing ropes—that feel distinct from vehicular stages. While you won’t mistake it for next-gen graphics, the art direction captures the high-energy spirit of the TV show.

Story

True to its roots, Run the Gauntlet doesn’t offer a deep narrative arc; instead, it immerses players in the adrenaline-fueled world of an ITV game show. You take on the role of one of the contestants vying for glory, racing through events designed to test every skill under the sun. The game’s “story” unfolds through progression, commentary and the random selection of events rather than cutscenes or dialogue.

Each playthrough feels unique thanks to the randomized sequence of challenges, so you never quite know which event you’ll face next. This procedural selection stands in for a traditional storyline, keeping tension high and offering a fresh sense of competition every time you load the tape. The lack of a linear plot may disappoint players seeking character development, but fans of pure action will appreciate the constant momentum.

Though there’s no voice-over host to cheer you on, the game’s presentation—complete with title screens and event banners—conveys the sense that you’re part of a televised extravaganza. Minimalist music cues and sound effects build atmosphere, reminding you at every turn that you’re competing against both the clock and unseen rivals.

Overall Experience

Run the Gauntlet delivers a commendable adaptation of a beloved TV game show, blending varied vehicle events with the on-foot excitement of The Hill. The random event order extends replay value and ensures that no two runs feel identical. This makes it perfect for casual solo sessions or local multiplayer tournaments with up to three friends taking turns.

However, loading times from cassette can be slow and occasionally break the rhythm of play. Patience is a virtue here—once you’re past the wait, the game’s challenges and pace pay off handsomely. Skill progression feels natural, and mastering each vehicle type is a rewarding process that encourages repeated attempts.

Whether you’re a fan of the original ITV show or simply crave a fast-paced obstacle course, Run the Gauntlet offers solid entertainment. Its blend of vehicle variety, environmental hazards and that all-important assault course makes for an engaging package. Just be ready to tolerate a bit of tape-loading downtime in exchange for the thrill of conquering the ultimate televised challenge.

Retro Replay Score

6.5/10