Run ’n’ Gun: A History of On-Foot Shooters passionately and meticulously chronicles the evolution of one of gaming’s purest genres.
Run ’n’ Gun: A History of On-Foot Shooters is far more than a commemorative coffee-table book. It is a methodical, passion-driven account of the evolution of one of the most intense and uncompromising genres in gaming: run ’n’ gun titles. From Contra and Metal Slug to Cuphead and Huntdown, the book builds a complete bridge between nostalgia and historical documentation, appealing both to veteran players and to newer fans of shooting games.
The author succeeds in transforming his love for the genre into a text filled with rhythm, information, and emotion. The way he connects the decades—from the earliest arcades to modern indie productions—creates a flow reminiscent of run ’n’ gun gameplay itself: fast, explosive, marked by sharp transitions and relentless action.
Run ’n’ Gun stands out for its production quality. The photographs, pixel-art snapshots, and clean layout perfectly capture the aesthetics of retro gaming. Forewords by Keiji Inafune (the “father” of Mega Man) and Chad & Jared Moldenhauer (creators of Cuphead) add further depth, illustrating how the genre’s roots continue to inspire contemporary creators. It is rare for a book to blend technical analysis, personal “confession,” and collectible value so naturally.
Through more than 300 game features, the book reminds us why the run ’n’ gun genre has always been synonymous with intensity, precision, and passion. Every page is a journey through the history of action, perseverance, and pixel-perfect design.
Run ’n’ Gun is not simply a book for collectors; it is a reminder of why we play videogames.
For the moment when the heartbeat synchronizes with the soundtrack, for the pull of the trigger that leads to catharsis, and for the constant pursuit of perfection within chaos.