data/claims/renegade-history.yamlRenegade (history and reception)
Game: Renegade.
By Akagi Masumi's list of arcade games, Technōs Japan's Nekketsu Kōha Kunio-kun, the arcade game sold abroad as Renegade, came out in Japan in May 1986, sold through Taito. renegade-history/arcade-japan
国内編 (Japan), Technōs Japan section — the section's heading; the OCR reads "[丁クノスジャハ。ン ■ Technos Japan ]"Technos JapanアーケードTVゲームリスト 国内・海外編 (1971-2005) · 国内編 (Japan), Technōs Japan section (scan image 51) — the rows beside it are "86/01 バトルレーン 5 (via Taito)" and "86/06 大怪獣の逆襲 (via Taito)"; the scout read the row on the page image86/05 熱血硬派くにおくん (Renegade) (via Taito)Our translation86/05 (May 1986) Nekketsu Kōha Kunio-kun (Renegade) (via Taito)アーケードTVゲームリスト 国内・海外編 (1971-2005) · 国内編 (Japan), another maker's section (scan image 45) — the row sits between "86/04ナックルジョー [ Seibu ]" and "86/06エンパイアシティ1931 [ Seibu ]", in a section that marks other makers' games in brackets; the section's heading hasn't been read86/05熱血硬派くにおくん ( Renegade ) [ Technos ]Our translation86/05 (May 1986) Nekketsu Kōha Kunio-kun (Renegade) [Technos]アーケードTVゲームリスト 国内・海外編 (1971-2005) · Japan index by title (scan image 93) — the scout read the row on the page image, where the OCR misplaces the neighbouring rows' dates熱血硬派くにおくん テクノス/タイトー 86/05Our translationNekketsu Kōha Kunio-kun, Technos/Taito, 86/05Checked by a second AI model, 2026-11-06.The list gives year and month only and names no source for its dates.
Cited by: Renegade
By Akagi Masumi's list, the arcade Renegade came out abroad in September 1986, under Taito America, credited to Technos. renegade-history/arcade-us
海外編 (overseas), TAITO AMERICA — the section's heading; the OCR reads "[TAITO AMERICA _|"TAITO AMERICAアーケードTVゲームリスト 国内・海外編 (1971-2005) · 海外編 (overseas), TAITO AMERICA (scan image 139) — the row before it is "86/09 Alcon"86/09 Renegade [Technos]アーケードTVゲームリスト 国内・海外編 (1971-2005) · overseas index (scan image 164)Renegade Technos/Taito America 86/09Checked by a second AI model, 2026-11-06.The list gives year and month only and doesn't name the country.
Cited by: Renegade
In the United States Taito America Corporation, of Wheeling, Illinois, sold the arcade Renegade as a kit to convert an upright cabinet with a color monitor. renegade-history/arcade-kit
title pageTaito America Corporation 660 S. Wheeling Rd. Wheeling, IL 60090Renegade conversion-kit manual (Taito America Corporation) · title pageThis manual will guide you in the conversion of your color monitor upright video game into aChecked by a second AI model, 2026-11-06.The manual prints no date.
Cited by: Renegade
Taito America's kit manual for the arcade Renegade has gangs taking over the city and the Renegade the one person able to beat them and the Boss. The fight starts in the subway and moves to the docks, where bikers take him on, then to the streets with an all-female gang, and last to a gang whose single knife stab kills him. renegade-history/arcade-story
Game InstructionsGangs have finally taken over the city. There is only one person able to defeat these gangs and eliminate the "Boss."Renegade conversion-kit manual (Taito America Corporation) · Game InstructionsThe attack begins in the subway. Then the action moves to the docks where menacing bikers challenge the Renegade. The all-female gang leads the Renegade into the streets.Renegade conversion-kit manual (Taito America Corporation) · Game InstructionsFinally the action continues to the most deadly gang of all where one stab of their knife will kill the Renegade.Checked by a second AI model, 2026-11-06.Cited by: Renegade
The arcade kit has a joystick, a Jump button, and left and right attack buttons: the attack button the Renegade faces punches and the opposite one kicks behind him. Pushing the joystick twice one way runs, Jump while running is a flying kick, and a stooping enemy can be held in a choke hold, then kicked or thrown. A life is lost when the strength meter empties or time runs out. renegade-history/arcade-play
How to PlayUse "Jump" button to jump.Renegade conversion-kit manual (Taito America Corporation) · How to PlayBy hitting the joystick twice in one direction, Renegade will run in that direction.Renegade conversion-kit manual (Taito America Corporation) · How to PlayWhile an enemy is stooping down, Renegade can put a "choke hold" on him.Renegade conversion-kit manual (Taito America Corporation) · How to PlayLose a life when "Strength Meter" is gone or time runs out.Renegade conversion-kit manual (Taito America Corporation) · Various ManeuversPUNCH: Use "Right or Left Attack" button depending on direction Renegade is facing.Renegade conversion-kit manual (Taito America Corporation) · Various ManeuversREVERSE THRUST KICK: Use the OPPOSITE "Right or Left Attack" button depending on direction Renegade is facing.Renegade conversion-kit manual (Taito America Corporation) · Various ManeuversFLYING KICK: Use "Jump" button when Renegade is running.Renegade conversion-kit manual (Taito America Corporation) · Various ManeuversTO BODYTHROW WHEN RENEGADE HAS A "CHOKE HOLD" ON AN ENEMY:Renegade conversion-kit manual (Taito America Corporation) · Various ManeuversTO KICK WHEN RENEGADE HAS A "CHOKE HOLD" ON AN ENEMY:Revised after a check by a second AI model, 2026-11-06: Added the manual's choke-hold kick line for the unquoted kick.Cited by: Renegade
Game Machine's "Best Hit Games 25" for table-model video games, in its 1 May 1987 issue, placed Nekketsu Kōha Kunio-kun 22nd, down from 19th, about a year after its release. The chart averages surveyed arcade operators' rankings by earnings and popularity on a ten-point scale, on which 5 is average; the game rated 5.09. renegade-history/arcade-chart-japan
printed p. 25 (PDF p. 13), Game Machine's Best Hit Games 25 — the OCR reads "2 19 Renegade(Technosパaito)"; on the page image (PDF p. 13) the row reads "22 19 熱血硬派くにおくん (タイトー) / Renegade (Technos/Taito) … 5.09", rank this issue then rank last issueRenegade(TechnosGame Machine, no. 307 (1 May 1987) · printed p. 25 (PDF p. 13), section heading — the heading's English reads "TABLE VIDEOS"テーブル型TVゲーム機Our translationtable-model TV game machinesGame Machine, no. 307 (1 May 1987) · printed p. 25 (PDF p. 13), rating legend — read by the lead on the page image調査ロケーションの設置機種を売上げと人気度から見たランク付けで、各オペレーターの判断によるデータを集計、その平均値を示したもの。Our translationA ranking of the machines installed at the surveyed locations by earnings and popularity: each operator's judgement, totalled and averaged.Game Machine, no. 307 (1 May 1987) · printed p. 25 (PDF p. 13), rating legend — read by the lead on the page image; 10 is the top of the scale5：平均的なものOur translation5: averageRevised after a check by a second AI model, 2026-11-06: Restated as a table-model chart averaging operators' earnings and popularity rankings, rated 5.09, with the legend quoted."About a year" sets the chart against arcade-japan's May 1986.
Cited by: Renegade
The same Game Machine issue reprints Replay's Player's Choice charts for April 1987, where the American Renegade, which it calls the US version of Nekketsu Kōha Kunio-kun, is 12th among the best software. renegade-history/arcade-chart-us
printed p. 24 (PDF p. 13), Replay Player's Choice, April 1987, best software — the rank, 12, was read by the scout on the page image; the OCR doesn't hold itレネゲード〔米国版・熱血硬派くにおくん) (タイトー )Our translationRenegade [US version of Nekketsu Kōha Kunio-kun] (Taito)Checked by a second AI model, 2026-11-06.Replay was an American coin-op trade magazine; its chart is read here through Game Machine's reprint only.
Cited by: Renegade
The Famicom Nekketsu Kōha Kunio-kun came on a ROM cassette numbered TJC-KN; its booklet carries Technōs Japan's 1987 copyright, and Famimaga's advertisement for it names Technōs Japan Co., Ltd. renegade-history/famicom-maker
contents page (image 2) — the scout read "©1987 TECHNOS JAPAN CORP." on the page image1987 TECHNOS JAPAN CORP.Nekketsu Kōha Kunio-kun Famicom instruction booklet (Japan, TJC-KN) · coverTJC-KNFamily Computer Magazine, 17 April 1987 (1987 no. 8) · image 109 (advertisement, no folio) — the scout read the ad's maker line on the page image; the OCR of the ad doesn't hold it株式会社 テクノスジャパンOur translationTechnōs Japan Co., Ltd.Revised after a check by a second AI model, 2026-11-06: Restated as the booklet's Technōs copyright and the ad's maker name; the booklet doesn't say Technōs published it.Cited by: Renegade
Family Computer Magazine's new-release calendar of 3 April 1987, and Technōs Japan's advertisement in its 17 April issue, gave 21 April 1987 as the planned release of the Famicom Nekketsu Kōha Kunio-kun, at ¥5,300. renegade-history/famicom-planned
printed p. 154 (image 154), new-release calendar — the scout read the row and the page's key to its marks on the page image; the OCR reads "熱血 硬派 くに お くん し 7 の ノ の ン バン" and "4 月 21 日 5300 幅"熱血硬派くにおくん ★テクノスジャパン ♥4月21日 ♣5300円Our translationNekketsu Kōha Kunio-kun, (★ maker) Technōs Japan, (♥ planned release date) 21 April, (♣ price) ¥5,300Family Computer Magazine, 17 April 1987 (1987 no. 8) · image 109 (advertisement, no folio) — read by the scout on the page image; the OCR doesn't hold the line4月21日発売予定 ROMカセット TJC-KN 予価5,300円Our translationRelease planned 21 April. ROM cassette TJC-KN. Planned price ¥5,300.Checked by a second AI model, 2026-11-06.The scout reports the same ad in the 1 May 1987 issue, which isn't pinned. The booklet prints no date, and the Internet Archive item's 1987-04-17 date is the uploader's.
Cited by: Renegade
Family Computer Magazine's weekly sales chart for 13-19 April 1987, in its 15 May issue, starred the Famicom Nekketsu Kōha Kunio-kun as a game released that week and placed it 5th, with 11 points. That puts the release in the week before the 21 April the ads had planned; no source read gives the day. renegade-history/famicom-chart
printed p. 137 (image 136), weekly chart, 4/13-4/19 — the scout read the row on the page image as "5 ★熱血硬派くにおくん テクノスジャパン (R) 11" under the heading "4/13～4/19"; the OCR splits it as "★熱血硬派くにおくん", "テクノス,"、 11", "ジャパン ( R ) 11"★熱血硬派くにおくんFamily Computer Magazine, 15 May 1987 (1987 no. 10) · printed p. 137 (image 136), chart footnote — read by the scout on the page image●DはディスクRはロムカセット。★はその週に発売されたゲームです。Our translationD is disk, R is ROM cassette. ★ marks games released that week.Family Computer Magazine's new-release calendar of 3 April 1987, and Technōs Japan's advertisement in its 17 April issue, gave 21 April 1987 as the planned release of the Famicom Nekketsu Kōha Kunio-kun, at ¥5,300. MagazineChecked by a second AI model, 2026-11-06.Cited by: Renegade
The Famicom booklet's story has Hiroshi, a student at Nekketsu High who is bullied by everyone, befriended by Kunio, a newly transferred "born hot-blooded tough". When someone kidnaps Hiroshi, Kunio sets out to rescue him. renegade-history/famicom-story
printed p. 1 (image 3), くにおくん物語 — the OCR reads "熱血 高校 に 通う ヒロ シ は 、 い つも みん な に いじ め ら れ て い だ 。"熱血高校に通うヒロシは、いつもみんなにいじめられていた。Our translationHiroshi, who goes to Nekketsu High, was always bullied by everyone.Nekketsu Kōha Kunio-kun Famicom instruction booklet (Japan, TJC-KN) · printed p. 1 (image 3) — the OCR reads "彼 の 名 は くに お / 生ま れ な が ら の 熱血 硬派 で ある 。"; the scout read the line on the page image彼の名はくにお!! 生まれながらの熱血硬派である。Our translationHis name is Kunio!! A born nekketsu kōha (hot-blooded tough).Nekketsu Kōha Kunio-kun Famicom instruction booklet (Japan, TJC-KN) · printed p. 1 (image 3) — the OCR misreads some kana ("誘 拐 され て し まつ だ の だ"); the scout read the lines on the page imageある日ヒロシが何者かに誘拐されてしまったのだ。くにおは、ヒロシを救いだすためたちあがった。Our translationOne day Hiroshi was kidnapped by someone. Kunio stood up to rescue Hiroshi.Checked by a second AI model, 2026-11-06.The NES booklet and the computer versions tell other stories (nes-story, spectrum-review, c64-review).
Cited by: Renegade
On the Famicom the game has three difficulty levels, chosen with Select, and four stages, each cleared by beating its boss. Kunio fights with punches and kicks and powers up by taking four kinds of items. renegade-history/famicom-play
printed p. 2 (image 4), ゲーム進行と遊び方 — the OCR reads "レ ベル は 3 段階 あり ます"レベルは3段階ありますOur translationThere are 3 levels.Nekketsu Kōha Kunio-kun Famicom instruction booklet (Japan, TJC-KN) · printed p. 2 (image 4) — the OCR reads 各 as 苔; the scout read the line on the page imageステージは4ステージあり、各ステージのボスを倒すとステージクリアとなります。Our translationThere are 4 stages; beating each stage's boss clears the stage.Nekketsu Kōha Kunio-kun Famicom instruction booklet (Japan, TJC-KN) · printed p. 2 (image 4) — the OCR reads キッ for キック; the scout read the line on the page image4種類のアイテムをとりながらパワーアップ、そしてパンチやキックを駆使して強敵をやっつけよう。Our translationPower up by taking 4 kinds of items, and beat the tough enemies with punches and kicks.Checked by a second AI model, 2026-11-06.Only the booklet's first two pages have been read closely; its pages on moves, the bike scene, characters and items haven't.
Cited by: Renegade
Renegade came out for the NES in North America in January 1988, with Taito as licensee. renegade-history/nes-release
PDF p. 10 — the row gives title, licensee, and month, not a dayRenegade Taito Software January 1988Checked by a second AI model, 2026-11-06.No source read gives the day.
Cited by: Renegade
Taito America Corporation published the NES Renegade under Nintendo's license, and its booklet sells it as the arcade hit brought home. renegade-history/nes-publisher
inside cover (image 2)TAITO AMERICA CORPORATIONRenegade NES instruction booklet (USA, Taito) · inside cover (image 2)This game is licensed by Nintendo for play on theRenegade NES instruction booklet (USA, Taito) · p. 1 (image 3)for buying RENEGADETM from Taito! This arcade hit is now yours to enjoy at home!Renegade NES instruction booklet (USA, Taito) · back cover (image 15)TAITO AMERICA CORPORATION LIMITED WARRANTYChecked by a second AI model, 2026-11-06.Cited by: Renegade
Chris Scullion's NES encyclopedia dates the NES Renegade to 1988 and credits Taito as publisher and Technos Japan as developer, calling it the first game of Technōs's Kunio-kun series given a makeover for release abroad. renegade-history/nes-developer
entry "RENEGADE"Year 1988 Publisher Taito Developer Technos JapanThe NES Encyclopedia: Every Game Released for the Nintendo Entertainment System · entry "RENEGADE"The very first game in the series - Nekketsu Koha Kunio-kun - was given a makeover and released overseas as Renegade.Checked by a second AI model, 2026-11-06.No credits from the NES cartridge have been read.
Cited by: Renegade
Scullion describes the NES game as a side-scrolling beat 'em up like Double Dragon, though earlier, in which the player punches, kicks and jump-kicks through four multi-area stages to a gun-toting final boss. He finds its art only slightly like the later Kunio-kun games, whose chunky sprites began with Super Dodge Ball. renegade-history/scullion-view
entry "RENEGADE"This is a side-scrolling beat 'em up similar to Double Dragon (though Renegade came out first), where players punch, kick and jump kick their way through four multi-area stages as they try to reach the gun-toting final boss.The NES Encyclopedia: Every Game Released for the Nintendo Entertainment System · entry "RENEGADE"only bears a slight resemblance to the rest of the Kunio-kun games:The NES Encyclopedia: Every Game Released for the Nintendo Entertainment System · entry "RENEGADE"it wasn't until the second game, Super Dodge Ball, that Technos adopted the chunky sprites that would become the series' trademark.Checked by a second AI model, 2026-11-06.Chris Scullion, The NES Encyclopedia (2019).
Cited by: Renegade
The NES booklet's story names no one: the player, who wasn't looking for trouble, is surrounded by gangs of thugs and has only fists and kicks to fight them with. renegade-history/nes-story
p. 2 (image 4), The StoryYou're surrounded by gangs of blood-thirsty thugs. You weren't looking for trouble but you're not going to run from it either.Renegade NES instruction booklet (USA, Taito) · p. 2 (image 4), The StoryYour flying fists and killer kicks will have to do the job. It's you or them!Checked by a second AI model, 2026-11-06.Cited by: Renegade
On the NES the player picks one of three difficulty levels, each of four stages: street punks on a subway platform, outlaw bikers at the wharf, Kung Fu women in an alley, and a maze of hoods. A life is lost when the power meter or the time clock runs out. Select chooses a one- or two-player game. renegade-history/nes-play
p. 3 (image 5), How to Playselect one of the three levels (level = difficulty) of play by pushing either the A or B button. Each level of play has four stages.Renegade NES instruction booklet (USA, Taito) · p. 3 (image 5)Stage 1: Square off against street punks on a subway platform. Stage 2: Go toe-to-toe with outlaw bikers at the wharf. Stage 3: A fight against killer Kung Fu females in an alley. Stage 4: A mind-blowing maze laced with blood hungry hoods.Renegade NES instruction booklet (USA, Taito) · p. 3 (image 5)When the power meter in the upper left corner of the screen runs out or the time clock runs out.Renegade NES instruction booklet (USA, Taito) · p. 5 (image 7), How to OperateSelect Button-Choose 1 or 2 player(s) game.Checked by a second AI model, 2026-11-06.The booklet doesn't say whether two players take turns or play together.
Cited by: Renegade
On the NES, A and B punch or kick behind depending on which way the Renegade faces, and both together jump-kick. Pressing the pad twice one way runs, with running punches and kicks. He can sit on a downed enemy and punch him, throw an enemy he holds by the collar over his shoulder, and knee a crouching one. renegade-history/nes-moves
p. 4 (image 6), How to OperateWhen the Renegade is facing to the right, use the A button to punch and the B button to kick backwards.Renegade NES instruction booklet (USA, Taito) · p. 4 (image 6)To jumpkick, push buttons A and B at the same time.Renegade NES instruction booklet (USA, Taito) · p. 5 (image 7)To run, push the control pad either to the right or to the left twice,Renegade NES instruction booklet (USA, Taito) · p. 6 (image 8)Running Kick Push the A and B buttons at the same time while Renegade is running.Renegade NES instruction booklet (USA, Taito) · p. 6 (image 8)He Is Down (Sit-On Punch)Renegade NES instruction booklet (USA, Taito) · p. 6 (image 8)and holding his collar, you can execute a shoulder throw.Renegade NES instruction booklet (USA, Taito) · p. 6 (image 8)and the enemy is crouching, knee him by pushing the AChecked by a second AI model, 2026-11-06.Cited by: Renegade
The NES booklet lists four pickups: a hamburger, found by kicking walls, restores the Renegade's power to 100%; a heart brings a second Renegade; a "P" lets him knock enemies down with one punch; and an "S", in the motorcycle scene only, gives turbo power to crash enemy motorcycles. It also prints button codes on the second controller that start a game at stage 2 or 3. renegade-history/nes-items
p. 8 (image 10), Special PowersKick the walls to find a hamburger. Eat it to bring his power level up to 100%.Renegade NES instruction booklet (USA, Taito) · p. 8 (image 10)Catch it and a second Renegade will appear.Renegade NES instruction booklet (USA, Taito) · p. 9 (image 11)to knock down his enemies with one punch.Renegade NES instruction booklet (USA, Taito) · p. 9 (image 11)the motorcycle scene. Grab it and Renegade will be able to crash an enemy's motorcycle with turbo power.Renegade NES instruction booklet (USA, Taito) · p. 7 (image 9)Advance to Stages 2 and 3:Renegade NES instruction booklet (USA, Taito) · p. 8 (image 10)Occasionally a heart will float past the Renegade.Renegade NES instruction booklet (USA, Taito) · p. 9 (image 11)A power "P" will appear.Renegade NES instruction booklet (USA, Taito) · p. 9 (image 11)A power "S" will appear only in the motorcycle scene.Renegade NES instruction booklet (USA, Taito) · p. 7 (image 9) — the stage 2 code; stage 3's is the same with controller 2's pad held downpad on controller 2 to the left:Revised after a check by a second AI model, 2026-11-06: Added the booklet's heart, P, S, and second-controller lines.The booklet ties each pickup to a hint about the timer's digits; those haven't been tested.
Cited by: Renegade
Ocean released the ZX Spectrum Renegade by September 1987 at £7.95, programmed by Mike Lamb. renegade-history/spectrum-release
p. 34, Renegade — the OCR reads "Producer; Ocean", "Retail price; £7,95", "Author: MJk& Lamb"; the scout read the header on the page imageProducer: Ocean Retail price: £7.95 Author: Mike LambChecked by a second AI model, 2026-11-06.The month is Crash's cover date; no source read gives the release day.
Cited by: Renegade
Imagine's advertisement in Crash for October 1987 offered Renegade for the ZX Spectrum at £7.95 and the Commodore 64 and Amstrad at £8.95 each, programmed by Imagine Software and licensed from Taito, 1986. renegade-history/imagine-versions
p. 100 (image 100), Imagine advertisement — read by the scout on the page image; the OCR doesn't hold itLicensed from © Taito Corp., 1986. Programmed for Amstrad, Spectrum, Commodore by Imagine Software.Crash, issue 45 (October 1987) · p. 100 (image 100) — read by the scout on the page imageSPECTRUM 7.95 COMMODORE 8.95 AMSTRAD 8.95Checked by a second AI model, 2026-11-06.Imagine was Ocean's label at the time; Crash names Ocean as producer of the Spectrum game (spectrum-release).
Cited by: Renegade
Crash's review of the Spectrum version tells another story: the player, on the way to meet Lucy across town, gets off a train among muggers and fights through five places, the station, the pier, back streets, the streets near the meeting place and the meeting place itself, each to be finished within a time limit. renegade-history/spectrum-review
p. 34 — the OCR garbles it ("mee) Lucy across town"); the scout read it on the page imageHaving arranged to meet Lucy across town, you find yourself getting off a train at a station filled with disreputable typesCrash, issue 44 (September 1987) · p. 34 — read by the scout on the page image; the OCR reads "five lamkcapds ol action"five landscapes of action: the station, the pier, the seedy back streets, the streets near your meeting place and the meeting place itselfCrash, issue 44 (September 1987) · p. 34 — the OCR reads "Each l^vei must be oomplQiect in a specified iime"Each level must be completed in a specified timeChecked by a second AI model, 2026-11-06.Cited by: Renegade
Crash gave the Spectrum version 89% overall, with 84% for presentation, 89% for graphics, 89% for playability and 87% for addictive qualities; its three reviewers gave 89% (Mike), 83% (Paul) and 94% (Ricky). renegade-history/spectrum-score
Value
{
"review": "Crash",
"of": 100,
"scores": {
"presentation": 84,
"graphics": 89,
"playability": 89,
"addictive qualities": 87,
"overall": 89
}
}p. 35, Renegade, ratings — the OCR holds the labels and none of the marks; the lead read the box and the reviewers' marks on the page images (images 34 and 35)PresentationCrash, issue 44 (September 1987) · p. 35, ratings box — read by the lead on the page image (image 35)Presentation 84% Graphics 89% Playability 89% Addictive qualities 87% Overall 89%Crash, issue 44 (September 1987) · p. 34, Mike's comment — read by the lead on the page image (image 34)Loads of fun! " 89%Crash, issue 44 (September 1987) · p. 34, Paul's comment — read by the lead on the page image (image 34)competitive for high scoring. " 83%Crash, issue 44 (September 1987) · p. 34, Ricky's comment — read by the lead on the page image (image 34)brings this game must not be missed. " 94%Revised after a check by a second AI model, 2026-11-06: Quoted the ratings box and the three reviewers' marks from the page images.Crash printed reviewers' first names only (Mike, Paul, Ricky).
Cited by: Renegade
Crash's box called the Spectrum game "a beat-'em-up with real punch". Ricky thought it "the beat-'em-up to end them all", Mike one of the best around though too easy until the last screen, and Paul found the action can get boring after a few games. renegade-history/spectrum-verdict
p. 35, general rating — the OCR reads "a b«at ' em- up vvttti real poncn"; the scout read it on the page imagea beat-'em-up with real punchCrash, issue 44 (September 1987) · p. 34, Ricky's comment — the OCR reads "T^h iust has to be Ifre beat- 'afn*op to end tfbem all"; the scout read it on the page imageThis just has to be the beat-'em-up to end them allCrash, issue 44 (September 1987) · p. 34, Mike's comment — the OCR garbles the line; read by the lead on the page image (image 34)all the screens are really easy apart from the last. Still, this is one of the best beat-'em-ups aroundCrash, issue 44 (September 1987) · p. 34, Paul's comment — the OCR reads "after a faw games the action cari ^et boring"; the scout read it on the page imageafter a few games the action can get boringRevised after a check by a second AI model, 2026-11-06: The lead confirmed Mike's comment on the page image; note only.Cited by: Renegade
Crash's "Run It Again" in October 1987 re-rated the Spectrum Renegade: Ricky called it "Definitely the best beat-'em-up!" at 92%, marked Pick of the Kicks, and Robin gave 88%, torn between it and The Way of the Tiger. renegade-history/spectrum-rerun
p. 41 (image 41), Run It Again, Renegade — read by the scout on the page image; the OCR doesn't hold itDefinitely the best beat-'em-up!Crash, issue 45 (October 1987) · p. 41 (image 41) — read by the scout on the page imagePICK OF THE KICKS 92%Crash, issue 45 (October 1987) · p. 41 (image 41) — read by the lead on the page image (image 41)I was hard put to choose between this and The Way Of The TigerCrash, issue 45 (October 1987) · p. 41 (image 41), Robin's comment — read by the lead on the page imageROBIN ■ I was hard put to choose between this and The Way Of The Tiger as my favourite beat-'em-upCrash, issue 45 (October 1987) · p. 41 (image 41), foot of Robin's comment — read by the lead on the page imageTry to get Renegade AND The Way Of The Tiger! 88%Revised after a check by a second AI model, 2026-11-06: Quoted Robin's comment and his 88% from the page image.The feature recalls the original mark as "89% Issue 33", a misprint for Crash 44 (spectrum-score). Reviewers' first names only.
Cited by: Renegade
Zzap!64 reviewed Imagine's Commodore 64 Renegade, £8.95 on cassette, in November 1987. In its account the hero, Wayne, fights New York street gangs to rescue his girlfriend Lucy, kidnapped and held in a warehouse across town. The title screen pictured reads ©1987 Imagine, ©1986 Taito. renegade-history/c64-review
p. 11, Renegade — the OCR reads "Imagrne, £fi.95 cass"; the scout read it on the page imageImagine, £8.95 cassZzap!64, issue 31 (November 1987) · p. 11 — the OCR garbles the line; read by the lead on the page image (image 11)his girlfriend, Lucy, has been kidnapped by a gang of street thugs, and is being held in a warehouse across town.Zzap!64, issue 31 (November 1987) · p. 11 — on a pictured screen; read by the scout on the page image, not in the OCRRENEGADE ©1987 IMAGINE ©1986 TAITOZzap!64, issue 31 (November 1987) · p. 11, standfirst — read by the lead on the page image (image 11)Fight New York street gangs single-handedly on the way to rescue your lady loveZzap!64, issue 31 (November 1987) · p. 11 — read by the lead on the page image (image 11)New Yorker Wayne discovers that his girlfriend, Lucy, has been kidnappedRevised after a check by a second AI model, 2026-11-06: Added Zzap!64's standfirst and its New Yorker Wayne line, read on the page image.Cited by: Renegade
Zzap!64 made the Commodore 64 version a Sizzler, 90% overall, with 78% for presentation, 89% for graphics, 74% for sound, 92% for hookability and 83% for lastability, and summed it up as "a thoroughly entertaining fighting romp through New York". renegade-history/c64-score
Value
{
"review": "Zzap!64",
"of": 100,
"scores": {
"presentation": 78,
"graphics": 89,
"sound": 74,
"hookability": 92,
"lastability": 83,
"overall": 90
}
}p. 11 (image 11), ratings — the OCR doesn't hold the box; the scout read it, the other marks, and the Sizzler award on the page imageOVERALL 90% A thoroughly entertaining fighting romp through New York.Checked by a second AI model, 2026-11-06.Cited by: Renegade
Zzap!64's reviewers found the Commodore 64 conversion "just about close to perfect" and the arcade game's features "faithfully reproduced", and one was amazed at how close it is to the arcade version. renegade-history/c64-verdict
p. 11, first comment — the OCR reads "improuing aiJ the lime" and "ch>se to perfect"Arcade conversions appear to be improving all the time, and this one is just about close to perfect.Zzap!64, issue 31 (November 1987) · p. 11, second comment — the OCR reads "AJI the features o1 the arcade version are faithfully reproduced"All the features of the arcade version are faithfully reproducedZzap!64, issue 31 (November 1987) · p. 11, third comment — the OCR reads "I'm amazed at h^w similar this Is to tFie arcade version-"I'm amazed at how similar this is to the arcade version.Checked by a second AI model, 2026-11-06.The comments are signed only by portraits with initials (C.B., S.J., J.R. by the scout's reading); the names aren't printed on the page.
Cited by: Renegade
In May 1989 Computer Gaming World listed Renegade for the Apple II, Amiga, Commodore 64/128, IBM PC and Atari ST, published by Taito (Canada), at $34.95 for Apple and Commodore and $39.95 for Amiga, IBM and ST; it reviewed the Commodore 64/128 version. renegade-history/us-computer-versions
p. 26, Street Lethal, Renegade boxTITLE: Renegade SYSTEMS: Apple II, Amiga, C-64/128, IBM, and ST REVIEWED: C-64/128Computer Gaming World, issue 59 (May 1989) · p. 26 — the OCR reads "l" for I (IBM)PRICE: $34.95 (Ap,C), $39.95 (Am,l,ST) PUBLISHER: Taito CanadaChecked by a second AI model, 2026-11-06.No source read dates the American computer releases.
Cited by: Renegade
Taito America advertised a PC Renegade, with Arkanoid, Alcon, Bubble Bobble and Sky Shark, in an ad copyright 1988 that ran in Computer Gaming World in May 1989; it names the IBM PC, promises EGA, Tandy and CGA graphics, and offers 3.5-inch and 5.25-inch disks. renegade-history/pc-ad
p. 13, Taito advertisementArkanoidTM AlconTM Bubble BobbleTM RenegadeTM and Sky SharkTM will make your PC do things you didn't think were possible.Computer Gaming World, issue 59 (May 1989) · p. 13 — the OCR reads "af" for of; read by the lead on the page image (image 13)marks af Taito America Inc. Copyright © 1988.Computer Gaming World, issue 59 (May 1989) · p. 13IBM and IBM PC are trademarks of International Business Machine.Computer Gaming World, issue 59 (May 1989) · p. 13 — the ad goes on "AVAILABLE IN 3.5" AND 5.25" FORMATS"FULL 16 COLOR EGA AND TANDY GRAPHICS. 4 COLOR CGA ALSO SUPPORTEDRevised after a check by a second AI model, 2026-11-06: Restated as an ad copyright 1988, with the IBM and graphics lines quoted from the page.Cited by: Renegade
David M. Wilson, reviewing it beside Double Dragon and Bad Dudes, found that the home Renegade drops the two-player option but has more villains and weapons than the arcade game, keeps the arcade "feel", and moves its hero smoother and faster than the other two. On the Commodore 64 he rated Double Dragon's graphics better, but Renegade loads fast and "offers more intensity", partly from its time limit. renegade-history/cgw-review
p. 21, Street LethalRenegade deletes the two- player option, but provides an even greater variety of villains and weapons than the arcade version.Computer Gaming World, issue 59 (May 1989) · p. 26cade "feel" is car- ried over into the personal computer versions of Renegade.Computer Gaming World, issue 59 (May 1989) · p. 26His movements are smoother and faster than in the other games.Computer Gaming World, issue 59 (May 1989) · p. 2664, the graphics of Double Dragon are superior to Renegade,Computer Gaming World, issue 59 (May 1989) · p. 26Renegade, to its credit, loads fast enough with the on-disk "fast loader."Computer Gaming World, issue 59 (May 1989) · p. 26Renegade offers more intensity than Double Dragon. Part of this is because of its use of a time limit.Checked by a second AI model, 2026-11-06.David M. Wilson, "Street Lethal", Computer Gaming World 59 (May 1989). No score.
Cited by: Renegade
Scullion writes that Ocean acquired the rights to develop and publish home-computer ports of Renegade, and with them the right to make its own sequels, the first being Target: Renegade. renegade-history/ocean-rights
entry "TARGET: RENEGADE"Although Technos developed the original Renegade, British studio Ocean acquired the rights to develop and publish ports for home computers. This deal also allowed Ocean to make its own sequels to Renegade, the first of which was Target: Renegade.Checked by a second AI model, 2026-11-06.A secondary source (2019); no contract or period report of the deal has been read.
Cited by: Renegade
By 1992 the Spectrum Renegade was a Hit Squad budget game. Your Sinclair's budget round-up of June 1992 ranked it third among beat-'em-ups: five levels, too easy by some players' account, and no two-player option. Target Renegade came first. renegade-history/budget-spectrum
p. 55, What a Barg!, beat-'em-ups3. Renegade Hit Squad/Issue 50Your Sinclair, issue 78 (June 1992) · p. 55Punch, flying- kick and knee your way through five villain- packed levels. People have complained it's too easy, but it's a splendid way to pass an afternoon without bothering your brain. If only it had a two- player option, he mused impishly.Your Sinclair, issue 78 (June 1992) · p. 551. Target Renegade Hit Squad/Issue 61Your Sinclair, issue 78 (June 1992) · p. 17, mail-order price list — the list prices it at £3.99; read in the OCR onlyRenegade 1 or 3Checked by a second AI model, 2026-11-06.By Jon Pillar, per the issue's contents index (data/contents/your-sinclair-078-1992-06.yaml); not re-read on the page. "Issue 50" is the Your Sinclair issue the round-up gives for the budget release's review, not read here.
Cited by: Renegade