Summary
- Release Year: 1981
- Genres: Puzzle, Shooter, Strategy
- Platforms: Apple II
- Developers: StarCraft, Inc.
- Publishers: Brøderbund Software
Alien Rain (1981): A Retro Sci-Fi Shooter with a Killer Soundtrack
Introduction
Alien Rain is a fixed shooter arcade game released in 1981 by Exidy. It is loosely based on the 1979 film Alien, and features similar gameplay to the classic arcade game Space Invaders. Alien Rain was a commercial success, and was ported to several home computers, including the Commodore VIC-20, Atari 8-bit family, and ZX Spectrum.
Gameplay
Alien Rain is a top-down shooter game in which the player controls a spaceship that moves左右 along the bottom of the screen. The player’s goal is to destroy waves of aliens that descend from the top of the screen. The aliens come in different shapes and sizes, and each type of alien has its own unique attack pattern.
The player’s spaceship is equipped with a laser cannon that can be fired in eight directions. The player can also collect power-ups that give them temporary abilities, such as increased firepower or speed.
Alien Rain features a variety of different levels, each with its own unique layout and敵. The game also features a bonus level, which is accessed by destroying all of the aliens in a regular level without losing a life.
Graphics and Sound
Alien Rain’s graphics are simple but effective. The aliens are well-animated, and the backgrounds are detailed and atmospheric. The game’s soundtrack is also excellent, and features a catchy main theme that will stay in your head long after you’ve stopped playing.
Reception
Alien Rain was a commercial success, and was praised for its addictive gameplay, challenging difficulty, and excellent soundtrack. The game was also ported to several home computers, where it was also well-received.
Legacy
Alien Rain is considered to be one of the classic arcade games of the early 1980s. The game’s simple but addictive gameplay, challenging difficulty, and excellent soundtrack have made it a favorite among retro gamers. Alien Rain has also been cited as an influence on several later射击游戏, including the popular 1990 arcade game Raiden.
Conclusion
Alien Rain is a classic arcade shooter that is still enjoyable today. The game’s simple but addictive gameplay, challenging difficulty, and excellent soundtrack make it a must-play for fans of retro gaming.
Additional Information
- Alien Rain was developed by Exidy, a company that was founded in 1973. Exidy is also known for developing other classic arcade games, such as Death Race (1976), Crossbow (1983), and Spy Hunter (1983).
- Alien Rain was ported to the Commodore VIC-20, Atari 8-bit family, and ZX Spectrum home computers. The home computer versions of the game were generally well-received, but they were not as graphically impressive as the arcade original.
- Alien Rain was one of the first arcade games to feature a licensed soundtrack. The game’s soundtrack was composed by Tim Follin, who is also known for composing the soundtracks for several other classic arcade games, such as Bubble Bobble (1986) and Rainbow Islands (1987).
Tips for Playing Alien Rain
- Use the power-ups to your advantage. The power-ups can give you a significant advantage in battle, so be sure to collect them whenever you can.
- Be careful of the different types of aliens. Each type of alien has its own unique attack pattern, so be sure to learn how to deal with each type effectively.
- Don’t be afraid to use your僚機. The僚機 can help you to take down enemies and protect you from enemy fire.
- Practice makes perfect. Alien Rain is a challenging game, but it is possible to master it with practice. Keep playing and you’ll eventually become a pro!
Review Score
7.5/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
