Traverse USA / Zippy Race

Traverse USA, also known as Zippy Race, is a classic arcade motorcycle racing game developed by Irem in 1983. In the game, players control a motorcycle, embarking on a cross-country race from the East Coast (New York) to the West Coast (Los Angeles) of the United States.

The majority of the game utilizes a top-down perspective, allowing players to clearly see the road and upcoming obstacles. The primary objective is to navigate the motorcycle on the highway, avoiding collisions with other traffic vehicles such as cars, trucks, buses, and even animals. Additionally, players must dodge road hazards like potholes, puddles, and other barriers.

A crucial element is fuel management. The motorcycle constantly consumes gas, and players must collect fuel cans that appear randomly on the road to continue the race. Running out of fuel results in a game over. Players need to reach checkpoints before the time limit expires.

A unique feature of the game are sections with bridges or ramps where the perspective switches to a behind-the-bike view as the player performs jumps. These are thrilling moments requiring precise timing. The vehicle's speed gradually increases, and the number of obstacles also grows as players progress further into the journey, increasing difficulty and challenge. Traverse USA offers a fast-paced, simple yet captivating arcade racing experience, making it a classic title from the 1980s.