Shuttle Rush

Game Overview

In Shuttle Rush you control Bob, a space taxman whose oxygen hose was damaged while fleeing an angry alien after a tax collection. Trapped aboard a sprawling hostile space station, his only goal is to reach his shuttle before his air runs out. Every stage is a race against a depleting oxygen timer that functions as both health and a hard time limit.

Levels are maze-like side-scrolling platforming sections filled with platforms, switches that open or close doors, patrolling alien enemies, and scattered coins. Coins are spent at oxygen vending machines to add four seconds of air each. Rushing straight for the exit is rarely optimal; players must plan efficient routes, decide which coins are worth the detour, and use the Wii U GamePad’s on-screen map to track open paths and switch states. Hitting an enemy drains valuable time, so careful movement and the ability to stun foes with a short-range laser are essential.

The game contains six worlds, each with five main stages, a boss race (where you compete against an alien that can seal exits if it reaches checkpoints first), and a bonus stage unlocked by collecting all medals. Medals are awarded for finishing under a target time, collecting every coin, and completing a stage without taking damage. There are no mid-level checkpoints, so each stage must be completed in a single clean run. Online leaderboards encourage further replay for high scores. The presentation features cartoony character art, retro-inspired level design, and a chiptune soundtrack that matches the high-pressure atmosphere.

Quick Specifications

• Platform: Wii U (eShop digital download)

• Developer: Takusan Works

• Publisher: Takusan Works

• Release Date: North America – November 6, 2014

• Genre: Action, Platformer (2D side-scrolling)

• Players: 1 (single-player only)

• Age Rating: ESRB E10+ (Fantasy Violence)

• Languages: English

• Controllers: Wii U GamePad (map on second screen), Wii U Pro Controller, and other compatible Wii U controllers

Key Features

• Over 40 stages across six worlds, including boss races and unlockable bonus levels

• Oxygen timer that serves as both life and strict time limit; coins purchase extra air

• Maze-like level design requiring route planning, switch activation, and efficient coin collection

• GamePad map showing layout and door states for strategic play

• Three medals per stage (time, coins, no-hit) that unlock bonus content

• Online leaderboards for competitive high-score chasing

• Short-range laser to temporarily stun enemies

• Cartoony visuals mixed with retro platforming aesthetics and chiptune music

Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

What is the main goal in Shuttle Rush?

Reach the exit of each stage before your oxygen timer runs out. Collect coins along the way to buy extra oxygen from vending machines and carefully plan your route through maze-like levels.

How many levels are in the game?

There are more than 40 stages in total, organized into six worlds. Each world typically includes five regular stages, a boss race stage, and a bonus stage unlocked by earning all medals.

Does Shuttle Rush support multiplayer?

No. The game is strictly single-player. Online features are limited to leaderboards for high scores.

Is the GamePad required?

The GamePad is highly recommended because it displays a useful map of the current stage and shows which doors have been opened by switches. The game can be played with other controllers, but the map is a significant aid.

What happens if I run out of oxygen?

Running out of oxygen means Bob can no longer breathe and the stage ends in failure. You must restart the entire stage from the beginning, as there are no mid-level checkpoints.

Are there online features beyond leaderboards?

No. Online functionality is limited to viewing and competing on high-score leaderboards. There is no online multiplayer or additional networked content.