Run-and-gun - Games

Run-and-gun is a foundational action game subgenre defined by relentless forward momentum and constant shooting. Players control agile characters who must advance through levels while eliminating waves of enemies with projectile weapons, often in side-scrolling or top-down perspectives. The design emphasizes fast reflexes, precise aiming, and resource management of ammunition or power-ups. It symbolizes pure arcade-style intensity, stripping away complex narratives for immediate, visceral combat. This concept has influenced countless games, from classic Contra to modern indie titles, celebrating kinetic gameplay where survival depends on aggressive movement and sustained firepower.