“Space Invaders” is a classic arcade video game developed by Tomohiro Nishikado and released in 1978 by the Japanese company Taito Corp. It is one of the earliest shooting games and set the template for the shoot ’em up genre. The game was immensely popular, and it had a significant impact on popular culture and the future development of video games.
In “Space Invaders,” the player controls a laser cannon that moves horizontally along the bottom of the screen. Rows of aliens move back and forth horizontally in the playfield above the player. The player must shoot the aliens before they reach the bottom of the screen. The aliens gradually increase their speed as fewer of them remain on the screen.
Space Invaders Facts
- Space Invaders was developed by Tomohiro Nishikado and released by Taito in 1978.
- It is considered one of the most influential video games of all time, helping to popularize the shooter genre.
- The game was originally released as an arcade cabinet and later ported to numerous home gaming platforms.
- In Space Invaders, the player controls a laser cannon at the bottom of the screen, tasked with shooting down waves of descending aliens.
- The game features four types of aliens with different point values and movement patterns.
- Space Invaders was one of the first games to introduce the concept of a high score, increasing competition among players.
- The game’s iconic soundtrack, composed by Tomohiro Nishikado, is a simple but memorable tune that speeds up as the aliens descend.
- Space Invaders is known for its distinctive alien designs, with each invader consisting of a two-dimensional sprite that flickers as it moves.
- The game introduced several gameplay innovations, such as the first instance of an on-screen “kill counter” displaying the number of aliens destroyed.
- Due to the limited processing power of the time, the aliens’ movement speed actually increases as more of them are destroyed, creating a sense of urgency.
- Space Invaders was a commercial success, becoming a cultural phenomenon and boosting the popularity of video games around the world.
- The game’s success in Japan led to a shortage of 100-yen coins, as they were being hoarded by players to feed into arcade machines.
- Space Invaders was one of the first video games to be licensed for home consoles, with ports released for the Atari 2600, Atari 5200, and other systems.
- The game’s popularity spawned numerous sequels and spin-offs, including a modernized version called Space Invaders Extreme.
- Space Invaders has left a lasting impact on popular culture, with references and tributes appearing in various forms of media, including movies, music, and art.
Space Invaders Gameplay Tips
- Prioritize taking out the aliens at the bottom: The aliens at the bottom pose a greater threat as they descend closer to your laser cannon. Focus on eliminating them first to create more breathing space.
- Use the barriers strategically: The game provides barriers that can protect your cannon from enemy fire. However, the barriers can also obstruct your shots. Use them wisely to shield yourself when needed, but don’t rely on them too heavily.
- Keep an eye on the alien movement patterns: Different alien formations have unique movement patterns. Observe their behavior and adjust your movements accordingly. Knowing how they move will help you anticipate their actions and aim more accurately.
- Shoot in the gaps: As the aliens move horizontally, they create gaps in their formations. Aim your shots at these gaps to increase your chances of hitting the aliens. It’s more effective than blindly shooting at a densely packed group.
- Watch out for UFOs: UFOs occasionally appear at the top of the screen, moving from side to side. These UFOs can earn you bonus points if you manage to hit them. Keep an eye out for them and take advantage of the extra points.
- Time your shots: Space Invaders has a limit on the number of bullets on the screen at any given time. Wait for your shots to hit or disappear before firing another bullet. Timing your shots will prevent your bullets from colliding with existing projectiles.
- Keep moving horizontally: Move your laser cannon horizontally to avoid incoming enemy fire. By constantly adjusting your position, you can dodge bullets and create better opportunities for shooting the aliens.
- Stay calm and focused: Space Invaders can get intense, especially as the aliens descend and their speed increases. Stay calm and focused to maintain precise aim and make better decisions.
- Use the edges to your advantage: When the aliens reach the edges of the screen, their movement slows down. Take advantage of this by positioning yourself near the sides and dealing with the aliens more effectively.
Space Invaders Cheats
- Rapid Fire Cheat: Some versions of Space Invaders allow you to fire rapidly by quickly tapping the fire button instead of holding it down. This can increase your firing rate and potentially help you take out more aliens.
- Shields Exploit: In certain versions of the game, you can position your laser cannon directly beneath one of the shields/barriers. This can create a narrow opening where you can shoot the aliens without being hit by their projectiles. However, this can be considered an unintended exploit and may not work in all versions of the game.
- Pause Glitch: In some versions of Space Invaders, pausing the game at the right moment can cause the aliens to stop moving, giving you a temporary advantage. This glitch or exploit varies across different versions and platforms, so it may not work consistently.
Space Invaders Walkthrough