Chelnov - Atomic Runner

Released in arcades by Data East in 1988, this action game follows a coal miner who, having gained superhuman powers in a nuclear power plant accident, sets out for New York to defeat the invading "Death Ray" army. Players must traverse all seven stages by masterfully utilizing an eight-way joystick, shot and jump buttons, and a uniquely nuanced "direction change" button. Shining with the eccentric world-building characteristic of Data East titles, the game has earned a cult following, often being described as both a grand achievement and a baffling masterpiece. Notably, in its original arcade environment, large character sprites would cause the game’s background music tempo to slow down—a distinctive phenomenon of the era.

Chelnov, a coal miner, is caught in a mysterious explosion and left critically injured. A group of scientists modifies his body, transforming him into a superhuman powered by nuclear energy. As Earth falls into crisis due to an alien invasion, Chelnov rises as a living power plant to fight for his own survival and the protection of humanity.