Summary
- Release Year: 1987
- Genres: Arcade
- Platforms: ZX Spectrum
- Publishers: Gremlin Graphics Software Ltd.
Alien Evolution (1987): A Retro Sci-Fi Shooter Classic
Released in 1987 by Taito, Alien Evolution is a side-scrolling arcade shooter that pits the player against hordes of alien invaders. The game is set in the year 2042, and humanity is under attack by an alien force known as the Zentraedi. The player takes control of a lone starfighter and must fight their way through waves of enemy ships, ground forces, and bosses.
Alien Evolution is known for its fast-paced action, challenging gameplay, and impressive graphics. The game’s visuals are particularly noteworthy for their use of parallax scrolling, which creates a sense of depth and immersion.
Gameplay
Alien Evolution is a horizontal scrolling shooter in the same vein as games like Gradius and R-Type. The player controls a starfighter that can move left, right, and up and down. The starfighter is equipped with a variety of weapons, including lasers, missiles, and bombs.
The player must use their weapons to destroy waves of enemy ships, ground forces, and bosses. The enemies in Alien Evolution are varied and challenging, and they require the player to use a variety of tactics to defeat them.
In addition to the main campaign, Alien Evolution also features a two-player cooperative mode. In this mode, two players can team up to fight through the game’s levels together.
Graphics and Sound
Alien Evolution’s graphics are some of the best on the arcade scene in 1987. The game uses parallax scrolling to create a sense of depth and immersion. The character sprites and enemy designs are also very well-done.
The game’s soundtrack is also very good. The music is fast-paced and exciting, and it helps to create a sense of urgency and danger.
Critical Reception
Alien Evolution was a critical and commercial success upon its release. The game was praised for its fast-paced action, challenging gameplay, and impressive graphics. Alien Evolution was also a financial success, and it helped to establish Taito as a major player in the arcade game industry.
Legacy
Alien Evolution is considered to be one of the best arcade shooters of all time. The game’s fast-paced action, challenging gameplay, and impressive graphics have made it a favorite among retro gamers. Alien Evolution has also been ported to a number of home platforms, including the Sega Genesis, Super Nintendo, and PlayStation.
Conclusion
Alien Evolution is a classic arcade shooter that still holds up today. The game’s fast-paced action, challenging gameplay, and impressive graphics make it a must-play for fans of the genre. Whether you’re a retro gamer or a newcomer to the genre, Alien Evolution is sure to provide you with hours of enjoyment.
Additional Information
- Alien Evolution was developed by Taito.
- The game was released in arcades in 1987.
- Alien Evolution was ported to the Sega Genesis, Super Nintendo, and PlayStation.
- The game is known for its fast-paced action, challenging gameplay, and impressive graphics.
- Alien Evolution is considered to be one of the best arcade shooters of all time.
Review Score
7.5/10
