Stocker (3/19/85)

Embark on a cross-country driving adventure in Stocker, a single-player racing game released in 1984 by Bally/Sente. Players pilot a car from Florida to California, traversing landscapes of woods and open fields across eight states. The gameplay focuses solely on the player’s ability to navigate the road; there are no competing racers to outmaneuver, but encounters with computer-controlled drivers do occur. Control is achieved through a steering wheel allowing for unlimited turning range combined with high and low gear selections. Players must manage their fuel supply by stopping at gas stations along the route, as running out of gas will abruptly end the journey. The game features an unusual mechanic where vehicles can be driven through water without consequence, although this does slow progress. Despite promotional materials suggesting a multi-player experience with various gameplay elements like traffic jams and biker gangs—none of which are present—Stocker offers a straightforward driving challenge centered around endurance and skillful navigation across the American landscape. The game appeared in the film The Color of Money.