Super Chase H.Q. (SNES) Playthrough
3Playthrough of Super Chase H.Q., Taito's 1993 first-person arcade racer for the Super Nintendo.
Super Chase H.Q. is a first-person driving and action game released by Taito in arcades in 1992 and later ported to the Super Nintendo Entertainment System. It is the third entry in the Chase H.Q. series, known for blending high-speed car chases with arcade-style crime fighting. In Super Chase H.Q., players step into the shoes of police officer Tony Gibson as he pursues a series of dangerous criminals across highways, city streets, and desert roads.
The gameplay revolves around high-speed pursuits where the player must chase down a fleeing suspect within a time limit. Unlike earlier games in the series, which featured a third-person behind-the-car view, Super Chase H.Q. shifts to a first-person cockpit perspective, enhancing the sensation of speed and putting the player directly into the driver’s seat. The car can accelerate, brake, and use turbo boosts, which are limited but essential for catching up to criminals quickly. Once the suspect is in view, the player must ram their vehicle repeatedly to disable it before time runs out.
Each level introduces a new fugitive and environment, from motorcycles weaving through traffic to heavily armed vehicles requiring more aggressive tactics. Along the way, the player must avoid civilian traffic, dodge gunfire, and manage sharp turns at breakneck speeds. The sense of urgency is constantly reinforced by the ticking timer and the dispatcher’s voice updates, creating a tense and fast-paced experience.
Visually, Super Chase H.Q. on the SNES makes good use of Mode 7 graphics to simulate a 3D driving environment. While not as smooth as its arcade counterpart, the game captures a convincing sense of motion and depth, with large, detailed sprites for vehicles and roadside scenery. The sound design complements the action with a mix of sirens, voiceovers, and energetic music that matches the adrenaline-fueled gameplay.
Though relatively short in length, Super Chase H.Q. delivers a focused and intense experience. It emphasizes speed and quick reflexes over complex mechanics, appealing to players who enjoy arcade-style thrills. Its unique first-person perspective and fast pacing helped it stand out among other racing and action titles of its time, making it a memorable entry in the police chase subgenre.