High-Octane Pursuit: The Legacy of 'Special Criminal Investigation'
A Sequel with a Bang
In 1989, Taito released ‘Special Criminal Investigation’ (S.C.I.), a sequel to the popular ‘Chase H.Q.’ from 1988. This arcade game not only continued the high-speed pursuits fans loved but also introduced new mechanics that elevated the gameplay. Players could now engage in vehicular combat, a feature that distinguished S.C.I. from its predecessor.
The Thrill of the Chase
S.C.I. swaps the black Porsche 928 for a sleek red Nissan 300ZX Z32 T-Top Turbo. This change wasn’t just aesthetic; it marked a shift in gameplay dynamics. Players could now fire at targets while racing, with controls cleverly integrated into the arcade setup—either on the steering wheel or gearshift. The protagonists, Tony Gibson and Det. Raymond Broady, return with roles reversed—Broady takes the wheel while Gibson handles the weaponry. The narrative also introduces Officer Karen, who provides critical intel on criminals.
Ports and Adaptations
Following its arcade success, ‘Special Criminal Investigation’ was ported to various home systems in 1991, including the Amiga, Atari ST, MS-DOS, Commodore 64, and ZX Spectrum, thanks to Ocean Software and ICE Software. Notably, a PC Engine version was released exclusively in Japan, and a Sega Saturn emulation appeared in 1996, bundled with its predecessor.
Reception and Impact
The game’s reception was overwhelmingly positive. In Japan, it was the second most-successful arcade unit upon release and became the third highest-grossing arcade game of 1990. Its popularity extended to Europe, especially in the UK, where it saw substantial sales.
Conclusion
‘Special Criminal Investigation’ is not just a game; it’s a relic of arcade history that continues to captivate players with its blend of racing and combat. Whether you’re a retro game enthusiast or new to the genre, S.C.I. offers a compelling experience that stands the test of time. For those looking to relive the arcade glory days, this game is a must-try.