Released in 1986, Out Run is a legendary game from the golden age of arcade terminals. It remains an essential reference and is often considered to be one of the best racing games of its generation.

Developed by SEGA, Out Run stood out for its innovations:
graphics with a distinctive style, music that you could choose before each ‘run’ and a system for selecting courses as you went along (except for the first race).

A unique atmosphere

The game's atmosphere also made a big impression. While other developers favoured a competitive and sporting approach, SEGA opted for a more ‘chill’ experience, where the player took the wheel of a Ferrari Testarossa, accompanied by a passenger, in a wind-in-the-hair atmosphere. A bold choice, often imitated but never equalled.

A cult item

Out Run wasn't just a game, it was also an object. The arcade terminal offered a real driving station, complete with seat, steering wheel, gear lever and pedals. An alternative version was even released with an F1-inspired aesthetic, with some versions equipped with a hydraulic system simulating the car's movements.

A Game Makers project to revisit Out Run.

Today, it's precisely this ‘object’ aspect that interests us. Although it's nothing new, we wanted to tell you about a fascinating project being carried out in 2021 by the talented creators of Game Makers: an Out Run mini-horn.

But be warned, this isn't just any miniature terminal. It's a complete reinterpretation in the spirit of the legendary 1986 terminal.

A faithful and improved miniature bollard

Inspired by an earlier creation by CircuitBeard, Game Makers has designed a miniature version that is faithful to the original, while retaining the authentic feel of the game.

Miniaturising such an object without sacrificing its proportions or ergonomics was a challenge. Yet the model includes a steering wheel, gearbox and two pedals. The modders didn't stop there and added several improvements.

Firstly, a small built-in motor generates vibrations when braking. But the real icing on the cake is the ‘Breeze’ mode: a built-in fan blows a stream of air over the player's face and hands, recreating the wind-in-the-hair effect during driving sessions.

An open source project for enthusiasts

The project is entirely open source. Game Makers provides all the necessary instructions for building this kiosk: list of materials, 3D printing diagrams, assembly guides, stickers, etc.

But be warned: this is not a conventional project. 3D printing, for example, is particularly time-consuming for this type of object, and you'll need special equipment, patience and attention to detail.

If you're motivated, Game Makers will take you step by step through a detailed inventory, down to the smallest screw, and a precise assembly guide.

Software

The terminal is powered by Recalbox, installed on a Raspberry Pi 3.

And that's not all...

For your viewing pleasure, here are two other Game Makers creations: a Mini Aero City and a Mini New Astro City.

They're just as gorgeous and are detailed on their website if you're in the mood for some extra DIY.