Neon Runner is a high-speed runner game that challenges your reflexes and precision as you race to complete levels and set record-breaking high scores. The first game from iRL Games debuting for Steam Next Fest, Neon Runner’s demo offers a quick look into the full concept.

80’s All the Way

Navigate the neon-lit tracks of Neon Runner – swerving, jumping, and boosting your way to the finish line! The world is visually stunning, inspired by Vaporwave and Outrun aesthetics. It’s giving 80’s with the high contrast and lined look, reminiscent of the retro-futuristic movies like Tron. Though simple, the style will be plenty to please fans of arcade racing games.

The pulsating Synthwave soundtrack is relatively calming, which I wasn’t expecting. It definitely fits the aesthetic, but to help keep players engaged in the action I was expecting something more. Like, with each thrum of the base the surrounding graphics might waver. Guitar riffs could correspond with obstacles moving across the screen. Programming obstacle interactions might be difficult because of the procedurally generated nature of the game, but that extra bit of effort could really elevate Neon Runner to the next level.

Speaking of Levels

The demo only has four or five levels to play with, but the full game promises 13. Each one is procedurally generated, so every run offers a fresh challenge. Plus, each level is longer than the last and introduces new mechanics or obstacle types. While the demo remained relatively simple for that reason, I can imagine how complex the track becomes the farther in you get.

One of the major appeals is the opportunity to compete against players worldwide and climb the high-score leaderboard to prove your skills. Neon Runner effectively turns Steam into its own arcade, bringing back some of that friendly competition a lot of us miss out on as we age. 

If you’re into racing games and want to relive some nostalgia, I’d say give Neon Runner a try. It’s not a heavy burden on your PC, and it could be a good way to chill out after a hard day of work.

Neon Runner’s demo is still available to play on Steam, as of publication. It’s release date is unknown.