This is just The Fifth Element: The Game

One developer is attempting to mash the futuristic neon-soaked setting of Cyberpunk 2077 with the equally neon-soaked early 2000s setting of Need for Speed Underground 2, which has resulted in a game that literally just looks like a playable version of The Fifth Element.

Punk Runner is an upcoming racing game by solo developer Max Parata, who has been working on the project since 2019.

He describes the game as a “homage” to Need for Speed Underground 2 “and other classic racing games, while incorporating a new level of customization inspired by Japanese car culture.”

And while that may definitely be true, gameplay-wise, you cannot convince me that this guy didn’t see the opening scene in The Fifth Element and decided to make a video game out of it.

It seems customisation isn’t the only leaf Punk Runner is taking out of Need For Speed Underground 2’s book however, as the multiplayer also has an “initiation” style challenge system that lets players “race anyone, anytime and anywhere in the open world.”

It’s not all recycled concepts however, as Parata says that one specific mechanic sets the game apart from other racers in the genre – thrusters.

“Unlike other games, where flying cars are unrealistic and operate like helicopters, drones or spaceships, Punk Runner presents flying cars that drive like real cars, only with thrusters instead of wheels,” Parata revealed.

If you’re curious, then I have great news, because you can download the demo for Punk Runner right now over on itch.io.

Or, if you can’t be bothered to download a free demo for a cool-looking game, the YouTuber Alpha Beta Gamer has uploaded a mini playthrough of what Punk Runner currently has to offer.

No current word on exactly when Punk Runner will release, or even which systems it will release on, but you may be waiting a little longer considering how much of an undertaking this project is for a solo dev.