If you aren’t familiar with Bitmap Books, now’s a great time to introduce yourself.
This company has come through with an assortment of amazing video game history books over the years. From the Nintendo 64 compendium to a book that examines computer role-playing games, its historical touch is absolutely fascinating. Not to mention that each release comes loaded with colorful visuals and tons of creative contributions.
Run ‘n’ Gun: A History of On-Foot Shooters is no exception. Bitmap goes out all again, covering the lexicon of blast-em-ups. From Contra to Sunsetriders to new releases, there’s no stone unturned here. It’s a huge book loaded with details and factoids. What’s more, it also covers games you may have never even played – so it could also serve as a gaming checklist.
So, yes, for history buffs, it’s a must. But I also recommend it to newcomers. You’ve got a ton of nostalgia to catch up on here.
With Run ‘n’ Gun: A History of On-Foot Shooters, All Games Are Welcome
Of course, Run ‘n’ Gun covers a majority of popular shooters in the genre. Old-school favorites like Ikari Warriors and Assault Suit Leynos are covered in exquisite detail. But even those that are platforming-related or even ninja-themed are given the chance to shine. Because, hey, you’re still shooting, just different projectiles, right?
The book covers a number of decades, starting in the 80s with the likes of Ninja Princess and Narc all the way to the 2020s with Gunvolt Chronicles and Deathwish Enforcers. Like I said, a lot covered here. Even duds like Mighty No. 9 get discussed in thorough breakdowns.
In front of the book is the index, which shows just where your favorites are, broken down by decade and title. This will let you flip through to favorites easily. However, I advise you to look through the whole thing. That’s because you’ll discover some games you never even heard of. I just rediscovered Journey To Silius from the NES era because of this beast.
There’s also a lengthy introduction, along with forewords by the legendary Keiji Inafune and Cuphead creators Chad and Jared Moldenhauer. These are worth reading as well, if only to get insights from the masters that truly understand this genre. There’s even an “origin story,” in case you’re wondering where the genre got its start. (I’d like to think Atari’s Outlaw, but of course, to each their own.)
The end result is a book staggeringly loaded with information and history. It’s a fantastic read and breaks down favorites, even those that may have slipped from your brain. Who knows, this might just push you on a spending spree to find older favorites. (Anyone got a Genesis cartridge of Rolling Thunder 2?)
So How’s the Quality?
As for the physical book itself, it’s nothing short of immaculate.
Bitmap Books knows its build design. They want their books to last. And Run ‘n’ Gun is a creation that could probably withstand a blast from a spread gun. The book material is outstanding and sturdy, though a bit on the heavy side. Its pages are printed on top-notch paper, which is very difficult to rip. (So it’s kind of safe for the kids? Keep an eye out, though.) The colors shine on every page, and the text is big and easy to read.
In addition, you also get a PDF copy of the book, so you can take it with you without sacrificing luggage space. That way, you can still get your reading on and keep your original copy from getting beat up. That’s a win-win.
Although we got the standard edition of Run ‘n’ Gun for review, we should mention the Collector’s Edition. For about $20 more, you get a rad collector’s case that looks like an Army munitions case. This will allow it to stand out further on your shelf. The original book is fine, but if you’re a true run-and-gunner, this is a must-have.
We Had a Blast Reading This One
Once again, Bitmap Books truly impresses us. Run ‘n’ Gun: A History of On-Foot Shooters is an exceptional read. It’s loaded with hundreds of pages of classic gaming goodness. The pictures and text are easy to take in, and you’ll learn lots of new information. It’s also highly entertaining and well organized. Not to mention we get actual input from masters of the genre. This team definitely did its homework.
We highly recommend it if you’re looking for another great video gaming read. In this day and age, it never hurts to keep history preserved. Especially when it comes to our beloved run-and-gun games. Sunsetriders for life!
GAMERHUB RATING: 5 (out of 5) JOYSTICKS
Many thanks to Sam Dyer and the team at Bitmap Books for sending along a review copy! You can order Run ‘n’ Gun: A History of On-Foot Shooters here!
