Master the longboard as you drift through stunning mountain ranges, swerve through bustling city streets, and along the sandy beaches of Sunset Island. Train to perform epic tricks, from jumping off-ramp to longboarding backwards. Grab Your Longboard and Race to the Top in Tanuki Sunset!
Players control the longboarding raccoon using a responsive control scheme that takes time to master. While the tutorial teaches the basics of steering and drifting, reviews highlight that using drifting effectively is a key skill to learn. Excessive drifting can actually slow the player down, so maintaining momentum by avoiding unnecessary drifting is crucial for achieving fast times.
Throughout the levels, players navigate a variety of obstacles, including cars, trucks, and sharp turns. Reviews praise the game for not punishing players too harshly for minor mistakes - most obstacles simply slow the player down rather than completely ending their run. In addition to the main routes, levels also feature optional challenges, such as catching up to a specific target or performing specific tricks. Completing these challenges provides an extra layer of depth and replayability.
The game's trick system allows players to perform jumps and tricks off ramps and other obstacles. While the system is relatively straightforward, reviews highlight that mastering the timing and execution of these tricks is important for achieving high scores and completing certain challenges.
As players progress, they earn in-game currency called "Tanuki Bits" that can be used to purchase new gear and customization options. These include different longboards, trucks, wheels, and a variety of outfits and accessories for the raccoon character. The customization options, while not extensive, allow players to personalize their character's appearance.
In addition to the main campaign levels, the game includes an "Endless Mode" that provides a continuous, procedurally-generated racing experience. There are also "Arcade Trials" that challenge players to complete specific tasks or achieve high scores on modified versions of the campaign levels. While the campaign is relatively short, the combination of these modes and the pursuit of high scores and cosmetic unlocks provides a solid degree of replayability for those seeking to further master the game's mechanics.