Matrix Runner
From Sega Retro
Matrix Runner |
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System(s): Sega Mega Drive |
Developer: ZCT Systems Group |
Genre: Adventure |
Number of players: 1 |
Status of prototype(s): Unreleased |
Peripheral(s): Sega VR |
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Matrix Runner is an unreleased Sega Mega Drive first-person adventure game for use with the Sega VR headset, developed by ZCT Systems Group and slated to be published by Sega.
Matrix Runner‘s attempt at visualizing a cyberspace called the Matrix anticipates the 1999 film The Matrix.
Plot
The August/September 1993 issue of Sega Visions magazine described the plot as allowing "play [as] an elite superhacker in this unique cyberspace voyage. You have to explore the dark, winding databanks of the Matrix to solve the mysterious disappearance of your colleagues, knowing that you might be the next victim. In your travels, you will collide with strange semi-humans and vulture-like beings."[1]
History
Announced alongside the Sega VR at Summer CES 1993, the game was a cyberpunk adventure game with polygonal 3D graphics, where the player must solve a murder mystery by entering a cyberspace called the Matrix. It was reportedly inspired by Hideo Kojima's Snatcher.[2]
Development
Matrix Runner was developed as a demonstration of the Sega VR’s innovative virtual reality display. ZCT Systems Group began development on the game sometime in 1992, producing an early version of the game that demonstrated animated enemies of various shapes and power. This prototype was the basis for footage appearing in Sega of America promotional videos.[3]
Development continued and the game reached about two-thirds completion before the Sega VR project was cancelled. ZCT Systems Group was required by contract to destroy all code, video, test data, etc., and they did.[4]
Images
The screenshot used in Sega of America’s 1993 trade catalog.[5]
Videos
Sega VR at 1993 CES with Matrix Runner featured in a promotional video
1993 CES presentation featuring Matrix Runner in the same promotional video
Promotional material
References
- ↑ Sega Visions, "August/September 1993" (US; 1993-xx-xx), page 95
- ↑ https://www.unseen64.net/2010/10/23/matrix-runner-sega-vr-genesis-cancelled/#comment-145942 (Wayback Machine: 2021-04-25 05:50)
- ↑ https://www.unseen64.net/2010/10/23/matrix-runner-sega-vr-genesis-cancelled/#comment-146339 (Wayback Machine: 2021-04-25 05:50)
- ↑ File:1993 Sega Catalog.pdf, page 73
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