Originally created as a 10-player “event game” for live events in Japan, the home version drops the count to 4 local players. Space Invaders Gigamax 4 SE (2018, arcade) Analog stick controls would have been a welcome option, but the game is still quite enjoyable as-is.
Sliding the Vaus around with your finger works quite well, though I wish the touchpad was a bit larger. The PlayStation version uses the DualSense/Shock’s touchpad to replicate the original game’s touch-screen controls.
The latter exclusively uses touch-screen controls and can only be played in portable mode. Space Invaders is available as part of Space Invaders Forever and the Switch-exclusive Space Invaders Invincible Collection. Not only do these guest characters function as delightful fanservice, but their powers also add a fair level of customization to the gameplay.Īrkanoid vs. Coins earned from levels can be spent to unlock characters from other Taito games like Bubble Bobble and The Ninja Warriors. One allows selected characters to use their unique power the other lets players aim and launch an Arkanoid-style ball that bounces around for a short time. Reflected shots can also damage and break bricks, revealing plenty of interesting power-ups or coins for the shop.Īs each fast-paced level progresses, two meters fill up. Instead, it reflects their shots back at them. The Vaus doesn’t normally fire directly at enemies. In each level, players must use the Vaus to defeat a target number of invaders. The game consists of 150 short levels spread across numerous planets. Thus, Taito has crafted a game that cleverly mixes elements of two of its most popular franchises. Humanity’s best chance to stop them is the Vaus, the legendary ship from the Arkanoid series. Space Invaders, the eponymous invaders are conquering the galaxy.
Space Invaders Extreme is one of the best games in the series Taito should really port the DS-only sequel to consoles and PC as well!Īrkanoid vs.
Replaying stages in Arcade and Free Play modes to seek better letter grades and higher scores for the online leaderboards adds a ton of replay value. Trippy background videos and thumping music contribute to the hyperactive, rhythm game-like feel. Stages culminate in exciting battles against gigantic bosses. The basic gameplay resembles the original Space Invaders (though without shields to hide behind), but limited-use power-up weapons like the laser and explosive shot make clearing waves a breeze. Each stage includes numerous waves of enemies (some of which get very creative) and timed bonus rounds. Arcade Mode consists of five rounds, with branching paths and unlockable extra levels making for a total of 16 different stages. This mildly enhanced version of the DS classic offers a robust single-player experience. Space Invaders Extreme (2008, Nintendo DS 2018, Steam) The games included in Space Invaders Forever are all quite distinct from each other: Sadly, no behind-the-scenes videos, artwork, or other extras are included. The main menu allows players to select a game, view the top local score, or view the production credits. Space invaders Forever is a low-key collection without much in the way of frills. One of those games, Space Invaders Gigamax 4 SE, supports 4-player local co-op, though the single-player games really steal the show. Space Invaders Forever from Taito and ININ Games is an affordably priced 3-game collection for PlayStation and Switch. That compilation is a Switch exclusive, but PlayStation players haven’t been left entirely high and dry. The series has seen numerous sequels and collections, including Space Invaders Invincible Collection for Nintendo Switch. Since the debut of the original game in 1978, Space Invaders has remained one of Taito’s most beloved franchises.