Stunts

Start your engines for Stunts, a legendary DOS racing game from 1990 that lets you do more than just drive — it lets you fly, loop, and crash in glorious polygonal 3D. Choose from exotic sports cars, challenge AI opponents, and most importantly, build your own track full of stunts. But beware: if you mess up the manual’s copy protection, the game will crash — literally!

How to play Stunts

Controls and Compatibility

Stunts was originally designed for DOS PCs, but today it can be played comfortably in your browser via emulation. On desktop, you can use:

• Keyboard: Use arrow keys for steering, Space for brake, Z to accelerate, and other keys for camera views and gear control.
• Gamepad: Supported via browser input mapping.
• Mobile: Touch controls vary depending on emulator implementation, but typically a virtual joystick is available.

Game Modes

You can either race solo against the clock or face off against AI opponents, each with unique driving styles. After each race, your performance is recorded with detailed statistics — including penalty time for cutting stunts or tracks.

Track Building

One of Stunts’ standout features is the Track Editor. It allows you to place loops, jumps, pipes, ramps, corkscrews, and more across a customizable 30×30 grid. Place start/finish lines, adjust terrain, and even save your custom circuits for others to try. Just remember, no track is complete without a death-defying loop or pipe section!

Copy Protection Mechanism

Stunts incorporates a unique copy protection system. Every time you launch the game, it prompts you to enter a specific phrase found in the manual (e.g. “Page 4, Line 4, Word 4”). Fail three times and the game won’t stop you immediately — instead, you’ll start the race and soon “crash” as part of the in-game security system, returning you to the menu. It’s one of the most memorable anti-piracy measures in classic gaming.

Below are the correct answers to the questions:

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
For Stunts, version 1.1 (2/12/91)

Page Line Word Question
1 12 2 …and *destructive* stunts that can smash your car…
3 2 1 *track* selection screen. Your goal is to be on it.
3 13 4 In addition, *previewing* might give you a better…
4 4 4 …time than missing *three* pieces of regular…
4 8 1 *proper* direction. If you get on the track…
5 12 3 hit the *cables* and crash…
6 3 7 while you are driving through the *loop*…
6 5 8 …more than *110* MPH
7 2 1 *displaying* the current car, an acceleration curve…
7 5 7 …retail price), and a set of *buttons*.
8 5 7 Just your everyday type of vehicle. *You*…
9 3 9 Interrupted while driving with a *query*
10 3 5 …your driving performance. This *button* is…
10 6 1 *camera* mode while in this viewing mode.
11 2 1 *directory*. Highlight the desired replay…
12 2 1 *around*, you can choose to race any one at a time.
13 4 11 …bird’s eye view of the *currently*…
14 6 1 *selected* piece is the area upon which it…

Tips for Winning

• Each car has unique handling and speed — choose based on track complexity.
• Mastering stunts like loops and corkscrews is crucial. Going too fast or too slow will send you flying.
• Replay mode lets you study past races and learn from your mistakes.
• Use preview mode to examine tricky forks and terrain before racing.

FAQ

What is Stunts?

Stunts is a 3D stunt racing game for DOS, released in 1990. It features customizable tracks and multiple vehicles.

How do I start playing?

Select a car and track from the main menu, then click “Let’s Drive” to begin. You can also edit or create tracks using the Track Editor.

What makes Stunts unique?

The game’s physics, stunt-focused gameplay, and in-depth Track Editor make it stand out even decades later.

Does the game include a copy protection feature?

Yes. You must enter a correct phrase from the manual upon launch. If entered incorrectly three times, the game simulates a crash and returns to the main menu.

What vehicles can I choose from?

There are over 10 cars, including Ferraris, Porsches, Lamborghinis, and off-road vehicles, each with unique stats and performance.

Can I play against AI opponents?

Yes. Each AI driver has a distinct style and difficulty. You can race against them instead of the clock.

How does replay work?

Stunts records up to 10 minutes of gameplay. You can rewind, fast-forward, and analyze your race from multiple camera angles.

Is there a mobile version of Stunts?

While no official mobile port exists, Stunts can be played on mobile devices through DOS emulation in supported browsers.

Can I share tracks?

Yes! Tracks can be saved and shared (in original DOS version via file sharing). In browser-based versions like on PEXY.IO, they can often be played directly if implemented.

What happens if I crash?

You can crash due to failed stunts or collisions. Crashing may end your race unless you use the “Continue Driving” feature from replay mode.

Game Fodder

• Stunts Game Manual