Free Running

Background

Free Running was originally due for release in 2005 but was delayed due to apathy from its original publisher, Eidos. The game was ultimately published in 2007 by Ubisoft, Reef Entertainment, and Graffiti Entertainment. A Nintendo DS version was planned but later cancelled.

The gameplay emphasizes speed and flamboyance, requiring players to navigate urban environments using climbing, leaping, wall-running, and other acrobatic maneuvers. Points are earned through combinations of moves and completing mini-challenges like checkpoint races. The PlayStation 2 version features Sébastien Foucan as a mentor in the tutorial, though he was removed in later ports. The Wii version supports both the Wii Remote and Nunchuk or the Classic Controller.

Reception was mixed across all platforms according to Metacritic. Eurogamer criticized the PlayStation 2 version's stiff controls and camera, which made performing tricks and combinations uneasy. The game did not compare favorably to the fluid movement in Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time and Crackdown, which were deemed better free running games.