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Chase H.Q.

aka: Taito Chase H.Q., Taito Presents Chase H.Q.

[ All ] [ Amiga ] [ Amstrad CPC ] [ Arcade ] [ Atari ST ] [ Commodore 64 ] [ FM Towns ] [ Game Boy ] [ Game Gear ] [ MSX ] [ NES ] [ SEGA Master System ] [ Sharp X68000 ] [ TurboGrafx-16 ] [ Wii ] [ ZX Spectrum ]

Critic Reviews 68% add missing review

Computer and Video Games (CVG) (97 out of 100)

A truly magnificent conversion of the top coin-op, which deservedly earns its current chart position.

Mar 1990 · Amstrad CPC · read review

Computer and Video Games (CVG) (97 out of 100)

Simply astonishing. All the features of the arcade game come together in the smoothest, fastest, most exciting Spectrum game seen in years. It gets my vote for Spectrum Conversion of the Year - if you miss it, you should be locked up!

Jan 1990 · ZX Spectrum · read review

Crash! (95 out of 100)

From start to final arrest Chase HQ is rip-roating turbo-charged action all the way

Dec 1989 · ZX Spectrum · read review

Your Sinclair (94 out of 100)

And finally, there's the sound. I hardly ever remember to mention sound (on most Speccy games it's hardly worth it) but in Chase HQ you can hardly miss it. It's great! There's some very good digitised speech (like "Geddee up!" and "Let's go, Mr Driver!"), nice police siren noises, and lovely touches like the note changing when you go into the tunnel sequences on 128K. And even on 48K there's a good tune! I could carp I suppose. You don't seem to get the nice spin you do in the arcade game, the controls are a bit hard to use with pinpoint accuracy (in fact, it's harder than the coin-op, but then so is driving a real car) and it takes an age to load, but none of those are really faults. All in all, the game's an out-'n'-out winner. As playable as Operation Thunderbolt is, as fun as Power Drift can be and as impressive as Hard Drivin' turned out to be, we're looking at Number One here. No question. It's a bloomin' miracle!

Feb 1990 · ZX Spectrum · read review

Your Sinclair (93 out of 100)

[Budget re-release] The super-fast and smooth graphics (minus colour), the sound (yes, sound, including digitised speech), the playability, the addictiveness. All this, and practically everything else in the coin-up seemed to have been miraculously squeezed into our rubber keyed chum, just going to show the Spectrum is by no means on its last legs.

Jan 1992 · ZX Spectrum · read review

Computer and Video Games (CVG) (93 out of 100)

A stunning conversion of the all-action crashing, smashing, car-trashing police chase game which contains all the thrills and spills of the original machine.

Jan 1990 · Amiga · read review

Computer and Video Games (CVG) (93 out of 100)

Looks virtually identical to the Amiga version, contains slightly more speech and is just as playable. If you're a speed freak, don't let this past you.

Jan 1990 · Atari ST · read review

ACE (Advanced Computer Entertainment) (928 out of 1000)

The PC Engine was designed with games like Chase HQ in mind and this fact shines through in the quality of the conversion. All of the jolly tunes from the coin-op are here and the speed, colours, and quality of the animation are all remarkably similar to the coin-op original. For simple, arcade-style racing frills and spills this is as good a game as you are likely to get any-where on a home system.

Jul 1990 · TurboGrafx-16 · read review

The Games Machine (UK) (91 out of 100)

On its aural qualities alone Chase HQ is worth a look, but considering the game they accompany it's an essential purchase.

Dec 1989 · ZX Spectrum · read review

Computer and Video Games (CVG) (90 out of 100)

This version of the game is even faster and smoother than Master System Chase HQ, and it even has a few extras, such as a route map and spare parts which provide extra speed and bump power. Shinobi was the first game that made the Game Gear worth buying - this is the second!

Sep 1991 · Game Gear · read review

CPC Attack! (90 out of 100)

Smash 'em off the road, but ya'll havta carch 'em fast. And boy, do I mean fast! Speed is the name of the game when in pursuit of a robbery getaway vehicle. The rods get narrow, are packed with Parent drivers, and are blocked with roadworks, but the chase is on and only the fastest survive in the job. D'ya think yar up t' it, kid?

Jun 1992 · Amstrad CPC · read review

Commodore User (9 out of 10)

The graphics are well up to the standard you'd expect (the other cars on the roads, are particularly varied and detailed). The sounds are good too, though I have to confess that the racket your own siren makes from the second you sight your quarry until you have his hands handcuffed behind his back began to grate fairly shortly. Chase H.Q. has everything a good drivealong should have, and quite a bit more besides. Even without the challenge of the chase, the driving action is excellent, with the car actually lifting off the ground when it goes over bumps and handling well throughout. When you add the run-'em-off-the-road hot pursuit action, well, what more could you ask for. A hit, or I'll eat the Ed's quart of Branston pickle, jar and all.

Nov 1988 · Arcade · read review

GamesCollection (9 out of 10)

Chase H.Q. Ăš tutto qui, un titolo dal sapore Arcade. Puro, semplice, immediato ed impegnativo con una giusta curva crescente di difficoltĂ . ma la domanda Ăš..com'Ăš questo Porting? La risposta Ăš scontata... FANTASTICO! Per pura curiositĂ  ho giocato anche alla versione per PC Engine, il quale, per quanto 8bittoso, con titoli come Splatterhouse ha sempre retto alla grande. Purtroppo con Chase H.Q. il divario Ăš avvilente per il prodigio di casa Nec, probabilmente anche per colpa di una conversione, a prima vista, mal riuscita. L'FM Towns ne esce a testa alta, dimostrandosi una volta di piĂč hardware solido e potente!

Jun 16th, 2008 · FM Towns · read review

Sinclair User (9 out of 10)

Chase-race game that'll have you on the edge of your seat . . . assuming that you were sitting down in the first place.

Dec 1988 · Arcade · read review

Joystick (French) (89 out of 100)

L'impression de vitesse est exceptionnelle, l'animation fluide. On pourra cependant remarquer un manque de scrolling du paysage de fond. En effet, celui-ci ne bouge pas sur deux plans comme dans les arcades. Toutefois, la voiture répond bien aux commandes du stick, et l'ambiance de ce genre de poursuite y est parfaitement reproduite. Chase HQ est sur PC Engine, une réussite à deux poils de la version originale.

Apr 1990 · TurboGrafx-16 · read review

The Games Machine (UK) (89 out of 100)

It's nice to know that Ray and Tony are on the still on the job, and Ocean are still producing great games. It just goes to prove that 8-bit versions are better (the Spectrum version was great too!) in some respects than 16-bit ones.

Mar 1990 · Amstrad CPC · read review

ACE (Advanced Computer Entertainment) (868 out of 1000)

Spectrum Chase HQ is really fast - thanks to the programming talents of John 'Jobbie' O'Brien. All the neat touches of the coin-op are included, such as the helicopter showing you the way and your car engine's sound changing when you enter a tunnel. One of the best Spectrum racers around.

Feb 1990 · ZX Spectrum · read review

Zero (85 out of 100)

Chase HQ sports some very detailed and well animated graphics; sadly sound effects are left struggling at the starting line. The game's hugely playable though - and should definitely grace your software shelves.

Aug 1990 · SEGA Master System · read review

The One (85 out of 100)

An impressive selection of the coin-op's music during the attract and introductory sequence gets the pulse racing, but unfortunately there's nothing so impressive during the game - the original Miami Vice- style music has been replaced by slower piece that plods along in stark contrast to the high-speed action. But that's only a minor quibble - capturing the thrills of the original is what counts, and Ocean's conversion has done that admirably.

Jan 1990 · Amiga · read review

Génération 4 (85 out of 100)

C'est l'une des meilleures courses de voitures disponibles sur micro. Certains le trouveront peut-ĂȘtre facile, mais d'autres penseront le contraire. Mais tout dĂ©pend de votre capacitĂ© Ă  manier le joystick.

Mar 1990 · TurboGrafx-16 · read review

Tilt (17 out of 20)

Une course-poursuite violente qu’il ne faut surtout pas manquer.

Jan 1990 · Amiga · read review

Tilt (17 out of 20)

Pour son premier programme sur cette console, Taito a particuliÚrement soigné cette conversion. Battle Outrun (un clÎne de Chase HQ) ne fait vraiment pas le poids à cÎté, surtout en ce qui concerne la rapidité de l'animation. Emportés par la vitesse, il n'est pas toujours facile de percuter l'autre véhicule, mais on y arrive grùce aux commandes aussi souples que précises. Incontournable.

Sep 1990 · SEGA Master System · read review

ACE (Advanced Computer Entertainment) (840 out of 1000)

Superb use of sound FX - great throaty growls as you pass the other cars on the road, screeches of breaks, and roar of engine as the gears shift and the Porsche accelerates. Graphics are fairly basic - the other cars on the road being particularly disappointing. No complaints about the speed of animation though. It fairly motors along and has a noticeable poke forward when you press space to engage the turbo power.

Feb 1990 · Amiga · read review

Zero (80 out of 100)

A fairly good conversion of a very good Arcade original. Driving and violence in the same game. What more could you ask for?

Feb 1990 · Amiga · read review

Play Time (80 out of 100)

ResĂŒmierend bleibt festzuhalten, daß es sich bei Chase H.Q. fĂŒr den Game Gear um eine Ă€ußerst gelungene Umsetzung der Automatenversion handelt.

May 1992 · Game Gear

ASM (Aktueller Software Markt) (9.6 out of 12)

GegnĂŒber den Heimcomputerversionen hat CHASE H.Q. zwar im Schwierigkeitsgrad zugelegt, doch das tut dem Spiel ganz gut. Die Motivation ist hoch, die Grafik gut, die Spielbarkeit ausgezeichnet – CHASE H.Q. ist ein Hit!

Apr 1990 · TurboGrafx-16

The One for Amiga Games ( )

[Budget re-release] Despite the simplistic graphics, this conversion been nicely presented, and still includes most of the coin-ops playability. Definitely worth a look especially for lovers of high-speed action.

Oct 1991 · Amiga · read review

The One for ST Games ( )

[Budget re-release] Despite the simplistic graphics, this conversion been nicely presented, and still includes most of the coin-ops playability. Definitely worth a look especially for lovers of high-speed action.

Oct 1991 · Atari ST · read review

Commodore Format (80 out of 100)

Chase HQ deserves you to take it home, load it up and go without sleep until you've finished it. Pity about the jerkiness though.

Jan 1992 · Commodore 64 · read review

Zero (79 out of 100)

Conversion of a brilliant car chase coin-op which could have been better. Mind you, it could have been a hell of a lot worse.

Feb 1990 · Atari ST · read review

ASM (Aktueller Software Markt) (9.4 out of 12)

Die Verfolgungsjagd gestaltet sich in jedem Level spannend und sorgt fĂŒr den richtigen Nervenkitzel zwischen WeihnachtsplĂ€tzchen und Silvesterböllern. Und was am erstaunlichsten ist: CHASE H.Q. ist ein actiongeladenes Game, das ohne Ballerei und brutale FahrkĂŒnste auskommt! Ich finde, das sollte honoriert werden!

Dec 1989 · Amiga · read review

The Games Machine (UK) (78 out of 100)

Immediately loses the appeal of the coin-op because Nancy's speech is in Japanese! In-game speech is missing, replaced with good effects but dreary music. Sprites are flat and blocky, backgrounds no better with pathetic colour graduation in the sky. However, it moves smoothly and quickly and gives a good illusion of movement. There are continue plays but even so its difficult to catch criminals in this version.

Aug 1990 · TurboGrafx-16 · read review

Retro Archives (15.5 out of 20)

Quitte Ă  rivaliser enfin avec OutRun, Taito aura misĂ© sur une formule assez culottĂ©e mais diablement efficace: on reprend absolument tout ce qui a fait le succĂšs du jeu de SEGA, on le transforme en poursuite dans une variante de "jouer au gendarme et au voleur", et on le nomme Chase H.Q. Et ça marche! Pied au plancher, on trouve une pleine satisfaction Ă  louvoyer entre les vĂ©hicules Ă  une vitesse grisante pour le simple plaisir de concasser l'une contre l'autre deux voitures de luxe. Évidemment, la formule s'essouffle assez vite, mais elle porte malgrĂ© tout en elle largement assez de peps - grĂące, notamment, Ă  une rĂ©alisation irrĂ©prochable - pour qu'on soit toujours tentĂ© de remettre une piĂšce de temps Ă  autre histoire de s'Ă©clater quelques minutes. Parfois, plus c'est simple et mieux ça marche, alors laissez-vous tenter!

Apr 20th, 2020 · Arcade · read review

ASM (Aktueller Software Markt) (9.2 out of 12)

Ganz anders sieht CHASE H.Q. auf dem ST aus: Manche Teile der Sprachausgabe sind zwar etwas undeutlich, doch dafĂŒr gibt‘s wieder gute Grafiken und eine Animation, die noch um einen Tick schneller als auf dem Amiga ist. Und da CHASE H.Q. Auf dem ST im Gegensatz zum Amiga-Original sogar noch etwas einfacher zu spielen ist, gibt‘s ‘nen Hitstern!

Jan 1990 · Atari ST · read review

Sega Pro (UK) (76 out of 100)

Tony and his partner patrol the streets, keeping in touch with Nancy at Chase HQ. When a criminal is located they have to run him off the road before the time runs out. Good fun but fairly repetitive and easy.

Dec 1991 · SEGA Master System · read review

Amiga Joker (76 out of 100)

In Sachen Spielspaß macht Chase H.Q. von Anfang an Laune, es ist einfach zu schön, die gesuchte Gangsterkarre zu stellen und anschließend von der Straße zu schubsen. Auch die Steuerung geht voll in Ordnung, wenngleich ein sehr knapp bemessenes Zeitlimit die Sache teuflisch schwer macht. Aber wozu gibt’s die drei Continues? Nur in punkto PrĂ€sentation wußte das Game nicht ganz zu ĂŒberzeugen: Etwas detailfreudiger hĂ€tte die Grafik schon ausfallen dĂŒrfen, und der verwendete Colorcycling-Effekt wirkt auch etwas altbacken. Dennoch sollte der ordentliche Sound und die starke Motivation fĂŒr einen der vorderen PlĂ€tze im Zieleinlauf reichen.

Dec 1989 · Amiga · read review

Your Commodore (75 out of 100)

As a conversion of the arcade machine, this one isn't too bad at all. The scrolling isn't too hot, however, and there isn't a stunning impression of speed.

Jun 1990 · Commodore 64 · read review

Sega Does (B)

Since the Master System version never released outside of Europe, the Game Gear port is the first time this 8-bit rendition of Chase H.Q. was seen in Japan and the U.S.. My feelings for the game remain the same – it’s a superb arcade racer with a severe lack of content – but since I’m much more inclined to play a game for 10 minutes on a handheld than I am on a home console, I dare say Chase H.Q. is a better fit on the Game Gear.

Jan 1st, 2018 · Game Gear · read review

Amstar (15 out of 20)

Chase HQ n'est pas époustouflant au niveau des graphismes mais il est assez attachant.

Sep 1990 · SEGA Master System · read review

The Video Game Critic (B)

For a game that looks so good the soundtrack is understated. Three continues are provided and you'll want to use them. Chase HQ is rather obscure but I love its brand of old-school racing action.

Aug 21st, 2014 · TurboGrafx-16 · read review

1UP! (71 out of 100)

Une mĂ©thode aussi farfelue qu'extrĂȘme, et pourtant, ce n'est pas loin d'ĂȘtre la meilleure pour sauver Chase HQ et l'apprĂ©cier. Rien que de se retrouver tout d'un coup avec une sirĂšne de police Ă  pourchasser un criminel pour dĂ©molir sa voiture, Ă  la façon d'un hybride de Destruction Derby et Grand Theft Auto avec cinq ans d'avance, vous met du baume au coeur. C'est un jeu fun, mais bĂąclĂ©, le Columns des courses de voiture, une idĂ©e rĂ©jouissante mais si modestement exploitĂ©e qu'on passe plus de temps Ă  essuyer des larmes en pensant Ă  ce qu'elle aurait pu donner qu'Ă  s'amuser avec le peu qu'il y a.

Feb 5th, 2007 · SEGA Master System · read review

ST Format (71 out of 100)

Despite this, and the fact that the look isn't quite up to the arcade version, it's still a playable conversion that should please followers of the original.

Feb 1990 · Atari ST · read review

Player One (70 out of 100)

Chase Hq n'est pas le jeu de l'annĂ©e sur Sega 8 bis, mais mĂ©rite quand mĂȘme une place dans votre logithĂ©que. Il apporte un plaisir de jeu sans dĂ©tour malgrĂ© les nombreux virages... Un conseil, le pad en mains, ne malmenez pas Tony, car il n'aime vraiment pas ça!

Sep 1990 · SEGA Master System

Retro Archives (14 out of 20)

Si vous pouvez jouer à Chase H.Q. sur borne d’arcade, jouez-y sur borne d’arcade. Si vous ne pouvez pas, ne vous posez pas de question et foncez sur la version PC Engine. Si vous n’avez pas de PC Engine non plus, demandez-vous si vous avez vraiment envie de jouer à Chase H.Q.

Apr 20th, 2020 · TurboGrafx-16 · read review

VideoGame (7 out of 10)

Uma perigosa quadrilha de assaltantes estĂĄ tomando a cidade e vocĂȘ recebeu a difĂ­cil missĂŁo de capturĂĄ-la. Mas cuidado! O perigo Ă© grande e toda a habilidade Ă© pouco para pegar os fora-da-lei. É que os bandidos tambĂ©m se encarregaram de roubar velozes carros esportes para a fuga. O Ășnico jeito de pegĂĄ-los Ă© assumir tambĂ©m um destes fantĂĄsticos carros e perseguĂ­-los, batendo na traseira do carro inimigo atĂ© destruĂ­-lo totalmente.

Nov 1991 · Game Boy · read review

1UP! (70 out of 100)

Puisque la Game Gear reproduit presque Ă  l'identique Chase H.Q. sur Master System, le constat est le mĂȘme qu'avec sa soeur jumelle. C'est bon mais c'est trop court et trop simple. Il y a des choses sympas, comme le dĂ©cor qui change aprĂšs avoir passĂ© un tunnel, ce que bon nombre de jeux de course 8-bit omettent de faire. Mais on aurait tout de mĂȘme voulu des sensations un peu plus piquantes et surtout un titre un peu plus relevĂ©, un peu plus Ă©toffĂ©. Pas Ă©tonnant que Taito ait rĂ©ussi Ă  le faire rentrer tel quel sur une cartouche de moindre capacitĂ©, cela dĂ©montre juste Ă  quel point le jeu original Ă©tait creux. Sega aurait pu faire tenir comme ça dix Hang-On en une seule cartouche, Dieu merci ils se sont abstenus de cette boutade. Comme on l'avait vu avec Super Monaco GP, la brave petite Game Gear n'a pas vraiment Ă©tĂ© gĂątĂ©e niveau qualitĂ© de ses jeux de course.

Feb 5th, 2007 · Game Gear · read review

Commodore User (70 out of 100)

A huge disappointment for me, and it will probably be the same for other HQ fans. That said, Ocean will be on to a winner simply by the name.

Jan 1990 · Amiga · read review

Defunct Games (70 out of 100)

While the game is undeniably fun, it's questionable whether or not it has lasting value. Die hard racing fans may be disappointed with only five chases, while casual players may quickly be frustrated with the high difficulty level.

Jun 23rd, 2007 · TurboGrafx-16 · read review

ACE (Advanced Computer Entertainment) (700 out of 1000)

The C64 version could easily have been the same but unfortunately the jerky and slow graphics and strident sound don't help matters much. The game is playable enough, but it doesn't really compare to the Spectrum and Amiga versions.

1990 · Commodore 64 · read review

Your Commodore (69 out of 100)

Nothing is particularly wrong with Chase HQ, but it seems to lack the polish it needs to lift it above the glut of driving games on the market.

Mar 1990 · Commodore 64 · read review

ASM (Aktueller Software Markt) (8 out of 12)

CHASE H.Q. entpuppte sich in den diversen Fassungen fĂŒr die Heimcomputer als ansprechendes Spielchen, denn das Fahrfeeling war hervorragend, die Verbrecherjagd spannend. Auf dem SEGA MASTER ist das Fahrfeeling nicht mninder schlecht, denn die Programmierer haben die nötigen Zoomeffekte und das Vorbeiziehen der Straße wirklich hervorragend auf die 8-Bit-Konsole rĂŒbergebracht. Die Backgrounds sind zudem durchweg hĂŒbsch, das Scrolling in Kurvenfahrten sauber. Lustig wird‘s dagegen bei Abfahrten, bei denen man die richtige nehmen sollte, um dem Gangsterauto auf die Spur zu kommen. Hier wir die Kurve einfach gespiegelt und flimmert ganz krĂ€ftig. Zweites Manko: Der Sound ist furchterregend piepsig und sollte schleunigst abgestellt werden.

Mar 1990 · SEGA Master System

Games-X (64 out of 100)

If you enjoy high speed racing simulations with a twist, Chase HQ is the perfect Game Gear title to get your heart pumping!

May 31st, 1991 · Game Gear · read review

Raze (62 out of 100)

The graphics are good, if not particularly detailed, but they do scroll smoothly at a fast speed. All the tunes are there, but no speech. The Game Boy version remains faithfully to the original in all respects, even its short term playability (completed on my third go!). So unless you're an inexperienced gamesplayer, I would steer clear (geddit?).

Jun 1991 · Game Boy · read review

ASM (Aktueller Software Markt) (7.4 out of 12)

Die Grafik ist naturgemĂ€ĂŸ nicht so gut, wie auf den Computern, aber doch recht gut, wenn man die beschrĂ€nkten Möglichkeiten des Game-Boys bedenkt. Das Scrolling ist gut und flĂŒssig. Der Sound ist gefĂ€llig, bis auf das MotorengerĂ€usch, das nicht so richtig ĂŒberzeugen kann. Im Ganzen recht nett gemacht aber es gibt Besseres.

Mar 1991 · Game Boy

Classic-games.net (6 out of 10)

Overall Chase H.Q. is incredibly short with only five levels. That’s the perfect length for someone looking to kill time in an arcade or grocery store but for a home release is lacking. Especially when you can brute force your way through it in about 15 minutes. There is a hidden sixth stage but you’ll need to amass over 5 million points to see it. That will require you to go through at least 3 loops and I don’t see anyone going to the trouble. As a port this version of Chase H.Q. turned out pretty great. But as a game it needs more meat on its bones.

Aug 7th, 2017 · TurboGrafx-16 · read review

GamesCollection (6 out of 10)

Sicuramente una conversione un po deludente, il Master System ha fatto vedere ben altre capacitĂ . Comunque un titolo che puĂČ risultare divertente.

Nov 23rd, 2007 · SEGA Master System · read review

All Game Guide ( )

A game of Chase H.Q. is a good time. It combines good driving and strategic maneuvering with mindless crashing and nonlethal force. It is not the best game of 1988, but it is a good one.

1998 · Arcade · read review

Sega Does (C+)

Drive fast. Chase cars. Upgrade your ride. These three ingredients make for the perfect arcade racer formula. Indeed Chase H.Q. is one of the most satisfying racing experiences on the Master System – and this fact makes its obscenely short length all the more depressing. I understand the arcade game only had five levels as well, but surely Taito could have added a few extra missions for the port? Either that or increase the game’s difficulty; even the last couple missions are a breeze if you have enough points to equip the Supercharger. Chase H.Q. thrills while it lasts, but there’s just not enough content to satisfy my urge for speed demon, feathered-hair-flying, wind-beneath-my-wings justice.

Jan 1st, 2018 · SEGA Master System · read review

Retro Archives (11.5 out of 20)

Dans la grande bataille qui oppose Chase H.Q. Ă  Battle Outrun sur Master System, j’aboutis pour ma part Ă  un match nul. Les deux titres ont leurs arguments, mais reposent Ă  95% sur des principes et des mĂ©canismes identiques – et difficile d’affirmer que l’un est clairement supĂ©rieur Ă  l’autre sauf Ă  ĂȘtre biaisĂ© oĂč Ă  trouver un Ă©lĂ©ment marquant dans les 5% de diffĂ©rence restants. Si vous voulez absolument choisir un camp, faites donc, mais dans le cas contraire ma recommandation sera d’essayer les deux.

Apr 20th, 2020 · SEGA Master System · read review

Power Play (56 out of 100)

Revolution in der Verbrechens-BekĂ€mpfung: Bei der gleichnamigen Automaten-Umsetzung flitzen die Beamten in einem gepanzerten schwarzen Porsche ĂŒber die Straße und rammen verdĂ€chtige Fahrzeuge in den Seitenstreifen.

Mar 1990 · Amiga

Retro Archives (11 out of 20)

Chase H.Q. sur Game Gear sort clairement comme la version gagnante du grand duel entre les deux consoles portables. GrĂące Ă  une rĂ©alisation honnĂȘte, Ă  une sensation de vitesse bien rendue et Ă  quelques nouveautĂ©s, le titre se hisse sans difficultĂ© Ă  hauteur de la version parue sur NES.

Apr 20th, 2020 · Game Gear · read review

The Games Machine (UK) (55 out of 100)

The graphics are simplistic, with blocky car sprites and very little in the way of roadside detail. Movement is fast, but is far too easy. By purchasing parts like a super charger, bumper and extra turbo, villains can easily be caught. A disappointing release.

Sep 1990 · SEGA Master System · read review

Retro Archives (11 out of 20)

DĂšs qu’on remet Taito aux commandes, ça va tout de suite mieux, et Chase H.Q. sur NES a au moins le mĂ©rite de redevenir enfin le titre de course-poursuite qu’il Ă©tait censĂ© ĂȘtre Ă  la base, et pas le simulateur de brouette qu’il Ă©tait devenu sous la houlette d’Ocean. Une nouvelle fois, inutile de bouder la version arcade pour cette itĂ©ration, mais si vous avez la cartouche dans un coin, n’hĂ©sitez pas Ă  lui laisser sa chance.

Apr 20th, 2020 · NES · read review

Zzap! (53 out of 100)

The coin-op name lures you in but the drab Spectrum appearance is a definite turn off. An anti-climactic release.

Feb 1990 · Commodore 64 · read review

Nintendo Magasinet (Sweden) (2.5 out of 5)

Chase H.Q. Àr ett jÀtteroligt spel. I arkadhallen Ätminstone. Den hÀr versionen till Game Boy lÀmnar en del övrigt att önska. Game Boys lilla skÀrm Àr alltför liten och enkelt för att kunna göra ett spel av den hÀr typen rÀttvisa. Man fÄr ont i ögonen efter vÀldigt kort tid. Vi vÀntar nog till Chase H.Q. kommer till SuperNES hÀr pÄ redaktionen

Aug 1991 · Game Boy

The Good Old Days (Staff Reviews only) (3 out of 6)

For such a game, it would probably have been a good idea to have two completely different kinds of level alternating: chasing the criminal by car, and then something else to arrest him. Plenty of room in the 'arcady' genre for alternatives - and each would have lightened the gameplay up significantly. Too bad, because the mediocre driving alone just doesn't cut it.

Aug 26th, 2005 · Amiga · read review

Gamers (Germany) (7 out of 15)

Schnelles Rennspiel mit Action-Einschlag. Kompetente Umsetzung des Automaten-Hits. Nach dem ersten schweren Level wird's sehr leicht - was soll der Blödsinn?

Aug 1992 · Game Gear

Retro Archives (9 out of 20)

Petit portage feignant directement copiĂ©/collĂ© depuis le version Amiga, ou plutĂŽt l’inverse, Chase H.Q. continue de reprĂ©senter Ă  peu prĂšs tout ce qu’on en est venu Ă  dĂ©tester chez les portages Ă  la chaine sous la houlette d’Ocean: ça tire Ă  peine parti de 10% des capacitĂ©s de la machine qui l’hĂ©berge, c’est moche et ça se traine. En Ă©tant extrĂȘmement bien disposĂ©, on pourra accepter d’y consacrer dix minutes; dans le cas contraire, autant ne jamais s’en approcher.

Apr 20th, 2020 · Atari ST · read review

Retro Archives (9 out of 20)

PassĂ© Ă  la moulinette technique qu’était Ocean, Chase H.Q. sur Amiga est devenu un petit titre sans envergure oĂč Ă  peu prĂšs tout ce qui faisait l’intĂ©rĂȘt de la version originale a disparu, remplacĂ© par une rĂ©alisation minable et une sensation de vitesse honteuse. On pouvait sans doute accepter d’y croire en 1989, mais aujourd’hui, le constat est sans appel: la magie est morte. À rĂ©server aux purs nostalgiques.

Apr 20th, 2020 · Amiga · read review

Video Games (44 out of 100)

Technisch ist die Game-Boy-Adaption des Automatenerfolgs gelungen. Bei guten LichtverhĂ€ltnissen kann man die Hindernisse problemlos erkennen; die 3-D-Grafik ist fließend und sorgt fĂŒr ein schneidiges FahrgefĂŒhl. Der Autoverfolgungsjagd geht langfristig aber etwas die Luft aus. Von Mission zu Mission gibt's zuwenig Abwechslung; das stĂ€ndige Gasgeben und Ausweichen bietet nicht gerade eine Herausforderung fĂŒr lange Monate. Wer hingegen eine umkomplizierte Zwischendurchraserei sucht, wird mit Chase H.Q. durchaus zufrieden sein: Ein Rennspiel der Mittelklasse.

Mar 1991 · Game Boy · read review

Power Play (43 out of 100)

"Chase H.Q." hat mich schon als Spielautomat nicht sonderlich begeistert (obwohl ich leidenschaftlich gerne "Miami Vice" anschaue). Allein die schöne 3D-Grafik war fĂŒr mich ausschlaggebend, ein paar MarkstĂŒcke zu investieren. Trotz meiner ohnehin skeptischen Erwartungshaltung hat mich die PC-Engine-Umsetzung enttĂ€uscht. Die 3D-Grafik ist zwar flott (sogar etwas zu schnell und damit unĂŒbersichtlich), aber ziemlich rucklig, und das SpielgefĂŒhl lĂ€ĂŸt arg zu wĂŒnschen ĂŒbrig.

May 1990 · TurboGrafx-16

ST Action (43 out of 100)

Even though you've got five suspects to apprehend. I really can't imagine the gameplay keeping you holding on for much longer than the first two!

Sep 1993 · Atari ST

Retro Archives (8.5 out of 20)

Chase H.Q. sur CPC n’aura pour une fois pas Ă©tĂ© programmĂ© par-dessus la jambe, et propose une version sĂ©rieuse qui tire assez intelligemment parti des capacitĂ©s de la machine d’Amstrad. Cela reste une version 8 bits, malgrĂ© tout, avec une vitesse et une musique aux abonnĂ©s absents, mais cela reste trĂšs dĂ©cent, ce qui est dĂ©jĂ  ça.

Apr 20th, 2020 · Amstrad CPC · read review

Mean Machines (42 out of 100)

I had very high hopes for this, but they were dashed as soon as I saw the unrealistic, jerky 3D graphics and heard the incredibly awful sound. Playability is very low due to an awful control method, and all it takes is a few good goes to put you off playing for good.

Mar 1991 · Game Boy · read review

Power Play (41 out of 100)

Die 3-D-Grafik ist flott; allerdings erkennt man die Hindernisse und anderen Fahrzeuge nur bei guten LichtverhÀltnissen rechtzeitig. Das Spielprinzip bietet auf Dauer keine Abwechslung, wodurch die Motivation leidet.

Jun 1991 · Game Boy

Nintendo Life ( )

Chase HQ might have been considered a very playable arcade game two decades ago, but it's one of those games that just hasn't aged very well over the years. Unless you just have to own every racing game that's released or you're a big fan of the arcade classic, you might want to pass on this outdated action racing title.

Jul 29th, 2008 · Wii · read review

Retro Archives (8 out of 20)

Le ZX Spectrum n’était peut-ĂȘtre pas la machine rĂȘvĂ©e pour accueillir des jeux de course, mais le fait est que ce portage de Chase H.Q. s’en tire malgrĂ© tout nettement mieux que bien d’autres itĂ©rations 8 bits. La vitesse est prĂ©sente, sans ĂȘtre exceptionnelle, et la jouabilitĂ© fonctionne; bref, c’est un jeu sur lequel on peut prĂ©tendre Ă  s’amuser, ce qui est indĂ©niablement la base. Peu d’intĂ©rĂȘt aujourd’hui, mais on ne sera pas trop sĂ©vĂšre.

Apr 20th, 2020 · ZX Spectrum · read review

Computer and Video Games (CVG) (36 out of 100)

Poor is a polite term to describe the incredible sluggish pace of the gameplay.

Mar 1990 · Commodore 64 · read review

Retro Archives (7 out of 20)

Je ne sais pas quelles excuses Tierheit a bien pu sortir pour justifier de développer un titre aussi honteux sur Sharp X68000, mais soyons clair: si ce Chase H.Q. est représentatif de leur talent, il valait effectivement mieux que la boßte place la clef sous la porte aprÚs avoir publié ce carnage. Fuyez cette horreur en vitesse.

Apr 20th, 2020 · Sharp X68000 · read review

Retro Archives (7 out of 20)

Chase H.Q. sur Game Boy échoue à atteindre son but: aucune adrénaline, une sensation de vitesse inexistante, des courses-poursuites qui tirent en longueur, un ennui qui vous assomme au bout de vingt secondes. Allez jouer à autre chose, vous vous rendrez service.

Apr 20th, 2020 · Game Boy · read review

Amiga Power (2 out of 6)

It looks as tired as Miami Vice.

May 1991 · Amiga · read review

Power Play (33 out of 100)

Vorletzten Monat habe ich dieses Programm schon einmal gespielt, allerdings unter dem Namen "Battle Out-Run". Ersatzteile fĂŒr den Wagen, Nitro-Zusatz, Gegner rammen – alles Ă€hnlich wie vor zwei Monaten. Die ungenaue Steuerung und das konfuse Gegner-Verhalten wurden der VollstĂ€ndigkeit halber mit ĂŒbernommen. Lediglich die Grafik wurde etwas geĂ€ndert (wenn auch nicht zu ihrem Vorteil). Die Musik ist sogar noch eine Spur schlechter. Leider muß ich wieder mal sagen, daß es ein Modul mehr gibt, das nicht in eine Sega-Sammlung gehört.

May 1990 · SEGA Master System

Game Zero (32.5 out of 100)

Come on Taito! You can do better than this! This version of Chase H.Q. has got to be the most visually boring game I've seen on the GameBoy. Average game control, blah graphics, and not too exciting sound make this a game I think can be passed up. There are hoards of better driving titles than this out now... check them out instead.

Sep 1992 · Game Boy · read review

Computer and Video Games (CVG) (31 out of 100)

Oo-er! Someone's definitely made a cardinal cock-up when it came to converting Taito's car chase coin-op onto the Gameboy. We're talking hideous 3D graphics, wobbling sounds and almost non-existent playability. Ignore the big name and leave this cart well alone.

May 1991 · Game Boy · read review

Nintendo Land (30 out of 100)

Now all I have left to say is, DON'T BUY THIS GAME!!!! It is worst $20 I've spent. Oh ya and I'm selling it so if any of you fell that you need to waste $20 bucks e-mail me : )

2003 · Game Boy · read review

Retro Archives (4.5 out of 20)

Vous vous demandiez pourquoi Ocean était aussi impopulaire auprÚs des joueurs, dans les années 80? Essayez Chase H.Q. sur MSX, et vous saurez pourquoi.

Apr 20th, 2020 · MSX · read review

Eurogamer.net (UK) (2 out of 10)

The problems are compounded by sluggish controls and wretched scrolling combined with incredibly fast speed. The speed isn't really something to shout about, since the game only uses about four frames to show cars getting closer, while the jittery scrolling makes corners a real chore and the moments when the road forks are reduced to ugly glitchy flickers. When Pitstop II, a C64 racing game from 1984, is both smoother and more playable than a 1992 arcade conversion, you know something went terribly wrong.

Sep 9th, 2008 · Wii · read review

The Games Machine (UK) (20 out of 100)

This version shows how bad conversions can be. Buy Turbo Outrun instead.

Feb 1990 · Commodore 64 · read review

Retro Archives (4 out of 20)

Le principe de la course-poursuite Ă©tant probablement un peu trop ambitieux, la version C64 de Chase H.Q. aura dĂ©cidĂ© de nous offrir un logiciel de course dont la particularitĂ© est de ne jamais vous permettre de rouler Ă  plus de 5 km/h. C’est lent Ă  en pleurer, c’est hideux comme un papier peint des annĂ©es 30, c’est chiant comme la pluie. À fuir.

Apr 20th, 2020 · Commodore 64 · read review

Retro Gamer (12 out of 100)

I’m more than happy to consign the C64 version of Chase HQ to the Hall of Shame. It may even provide inspiration for those people wishing to enter this year’s Crap Game Competition. Remind yourself of how bad it was, if you dare.

Jun 2004 · Commodore 64

ASM (Aktueller Software Markt) (1.4 out of 12)

Auf dem Amiga ließ sich die Verfolgungsjagd dank nett animierter Grafik und SoundunterstĂŒtzung gut an, doch auf dem C-64 wird‘s grausig ohne Ende. Das beginnt schon bei dem PC-mĂ€ĂŸigen Piepstitelsound, geht ĂŒber die krĂŒckstocklangsame Animation der Grafik und endet bei den monochromen Sprites, die anscheinend 1:1 vom Spectrum ĂŒbernommen wurden. Und das alles in einem ekelerregenden, das Game unspielbar machenden Ruckeling! Wer es trotz dieser programmiertechnischen Hindernisse schaffen sollte, wenigstens den ersten Feindwagen zu erreichen, wird seines Lebens trotzdem nicht froh werden, denn das Auto ist kaum einzuholen! Ehrlich, die C-64-Fassung ist an MĂ€ngeln kaum zu ĂŒberbieten und verdient damit den Titel des KONVERTIERUNGSFLOP DES MONATS!

Jan 1990 · Commodore 64 · read review

Australian Commodore and Amiga Review N/A

(...) I can guarantee that the Amiga version I played is a heck of a lot of fun. The action is fast, the graphics are good and the sound effects are first rate. (...) Chase HQ is very playable, very addictive and a whole lot of fun.

Apr 1990 · Amiga · read review

Your Sinclair N/A

Wheeeeeeee! I've finally found a race game that's better than OutRun. You don't believe me? Then check this out. Chase H.Q. runs more smoothly than the Sega classic, its graphics are more detailed, the sound is more lifelike and it's even got a game attached to all of that high speed driving!

Dec 1988 · Arcade · read review

Player Reviews

Let's go, Mr. Driver, to the bin
by Katakis | カタキă‚č (43228)

The Good
The game was a hit in the arcades. This was no ordinary racing game. Catching up to the criminal and smashing his car until he pulls over was a joy for me. Ocean decided that they would be behind the home versions, so they had to be good. Right? Not really, for the Commodore 64 version anyway.

The Bad
Let's start with the one thing that is noticeable in the game: the sound. The only pieces of music are poor and doesn't take full advantage of the C-64's SID chip. The theme still plays even when you start a new game, so you would think that this would continue to the end of whatever stage you're on, but no. It just cuts out whenever you speed up or use a turbo boost.

As for the sound effects, the only noticeable things are the engine which actually sounds like a vacuum cleaner, and the skidding tires sound like a burglar alarm. Why didn't Ocean just add an option to toggle between music and effect, like they did for Total Recall? Finally, the Amstrad and Speccy versions share one thing in common with the original coin-op. There is speech in the game, as well as the coin deposit sound. Too bad the C-64 version has none of this.

Then there is the graphics, which look nothing like those depicted on the back of the game box. What Ocean did was port the monochrome graphics from the Speccy version into the C-64's, but chuck in some colored sprites that are already blocky by default. There are five stages in the game, but the layout of all of them is is the same, so unless you took notice of the stage number before you play it, you will hardly notice a difference. The scrolling is very weak as well.

The Bottom Line
Ocean established itself as a software company in the Eighties, and went on to create titles such as Head Over Heels, Batman, and Wizball - all of them popular hits. They also handled conversions of successful coin-op titles, like Chase H.Q. Having said that, it is surprising to see they released this abysmal Commodore 64 version. Apart from the tape loading theme, which is the highlight, the graphics and sound are pathetic. I recently read in Retro Gamer #5 that Ocean fired most of its C-64 programmers over this and produced a far superior version of the sequel. If you are looking for a best racing game for the C-64 that involves you doing something other than racing, this is not it.

Jul 27th, 2012 · Commodore 64

Get from A to B then Bang!
by FatherJack (62738)

The Good
The seaside in the 80s was a wonderful place full of amusement arcades and many many arcade machines. Choosing which one to put your money in meant companies had to grab you with either amazing graphics or something apart from a joystick. To me the biggest draw to a game was if it had a steering wheel or a gun and those steering wheels drew me closer. Most driving games of the time was about getting From A to B within a time limit avoiding the other vehicles on the road either in a race or impressing your girlfriend (Out Run).

Chase H.Q. starts off like any other driving game, driving within a time limit, but with a slightly different angle to catch an accused criminal in an other vehicle. As you drive you have the usual avoid the other drivers and don't stray off the track style of gameplay but you do get halfway through a level and a decision to go left or right dictated by a large arrow. The wrong turn means you have to drive a longer route. Even three turbo boosts were thrown in if you find yourself lagging behind.

After careful driving and speed you catch up to the accused criminal. And then BANG! the game changes, you have to smash into the guys vehicle as your sirens blare within a new time limit. Instead of avoiding vehicles like you've been doing for so long in driving games you can actually smash another vehicle (granted you need to avoid the other road users still). You have to fill a damage meter to stop the vehicle and apprehend him.

The Bad
The main problem is the same as the majority of Arcade games, they gently ease you into the game before turning very hard thus the game becomes a short but sweet experience. Like most arcade games you either became a Gaming God or had a pocket full of change to get extended enjoyment from it.

The Bottom Line
A very smooth fast driving game with the added twist of having to smash the criminals vehicle when you catch him up.

Apr 26th, 2014 · Arcade

Plus 79 player ratings without reviews

Contributors to this Entry

Critic reviews added by Jo ST, S Olafsson, piltdown_man, lights out party, Tim Janssen, Hello X), FatherJack, Riemann80, Alsy, Patrick Bregger, SoMuchChaotix, SlyDante, chirinea, Wizo, RhYnoECfnW, Scaryfun, Terok Nor, Mr Creosote, Jacek Grzondziel, Tomas Pettersson, yenruoj_tsegnol_eht (!!ihsoy), Big John WV, CalaisianMindthief.