Hang-On

Game Details:

This title represented a significant hardware breakthrough, using "Super Scaler" technology to simulate a smooth pseudo-3D perspective that was incredibly impressive for its time. The core gameplay is a time attack challenge where the course is divided into five stages, each with a different environment such as plains, nightscapes, and mountains. Players must pass through checkpoints before the timer runs out to gain more time. In addition to speed control, players need to expertly manage their balance while cornering to avoid crashing into roadside obstacles or other racers. This high-risk, high-reward driving experience made it a massive hit in arcades.

Game Guide:

To complete all stages in Hang-On, the core strategy is to maintain top speed. The motorcycle has high and low gears; you should shift to high gear quickly after starting. On straightaways, be sure to keep your speed around 280 km/h, but be aware that the higher your speed, the more challenging the steering becomes.

Cornering technique is the key to victory. When a turn warning appears, it's best to take the inside line. For gentle curves, you can get through with minor steering adjustments. For sharp turns, however, you'll need to briefly release the throttle (avoid braking, as losing too much speed will cost you precious time) to coast through the turn. Once your bike is pointed toward the exit, immediately go full throttle.

Avoiding other racers is crucial. The blue and yellow opponent vehicles on the track are your biggest threat, as they often change lanes suddenly just as you're about to pass. The best strategy is to anticipate their moves: look for gaps in the traffic ahead and cut in from the side at a wide angle to overtake. Avoid riding parallel to AI vehicles in corners. A crash will cost you 5-8 seconds, which is fatal in the later stages. Therefore, in the final two stages, it's better to slow down slightly to play it safe than to risk aggressively weaving through traffic. Remember, a consistent average speed will get you to the finish line more easily than short bursts of extreme speed.