Summary
- Release Year: 1982
- Genres: Arcade, Shooter
- Platforms: Amstrad CPC, Apple II, Arcade, Atari 2600, Atari 5200, Atari 7800, Atari ST/STE, Commodore C64/128/MAX, Family Computer, FM-7, Nintendo Entertainment System, PC-8800 Series, PC-9800 Series, Sharp X1, Wii, Wii U, Xbox 360, ZX Spectrum
- Developers: Namco
- Publishers: Atari, Atari Corporation, Bandai America, Bandai Namco Entertainment, Bandai Namco Games, Dempa Shimbunsha, Enix Corporation, Mindscape, Namco, Namco Bandai Games, U.S. Gold
Xevious (1982): The Space Shooter That Defined a Genre
Xevious is a classic arcade shoot ’em up game released by Namco in 1982. It was one of the first games to feature smooth scrolling graphics and multiple enemy types, and its distinctive gameplay and visuals have made it a beloved favorite among gamers for decades.
Gameplay
Xevious is a vertically scrolling shooter in which the player controls a Solvalou Fighter Plane. The objective of the game is to destroy the Xevious Mother Ship, which is located at the end of each stage. To do this, the player must navigate through waves of enemy ships, tanks, and other obstacles while avoiding their fire.
The player’s ship is equipped with a variety of weapons, including a forward-firing laser, bombs, and missiles. The player can also collect power-ups to increase their firepower and speed.
Enemies
Xevious features a wide variety of enemy types, each with its own unique attack patterns. Some of the most common enemies include:
- Domogram Rovers: These are small, ground-based tanks that fire bullets at the player.
- Toroid Patrol Fleets: These are flying saucers that fire lasers and bombs.
- Zoshi Death Squads: These are fast-moving, kamikaze planes that explode on contact with the player’s ship.
- Andor Genesis: These are large, powerful battleships that fire a variety of weapons.
- Xevious Mother Ship: This is the final boss of the game. It is a massive, heavily armed spaceship that fires a variety of deadly weapons.
Graphics and Sound
Xevious was one of the first arcade games to feature smooth scrolling graphics. This gave the game a sense of speed and excitement that was unmatched by other games at the time. The game’s visuals are also notable for their vibrant colors and detailed sprites.
The sound in Xevious is equally impressive. The game’s soundtrack is composed of catchy, upbeat tunes that perfectly capture the game’s frantic pace. The sound effects are also excellent, with each weapon and enemy type having its own unique sound.
Legacy
Xevious was a huge success in arcades, and it has remained popular with gamers ever since. The game has been ported to numerous home consoles and computers, and it is still available to play on modern platforms.
Xevious has also been influential in the development of other shoot ’em up games. Its smooth scrolling graphics, multiple enemy types, and challenging gameplay have become staples of the genre.
Conclusion
Xevious is a classic arcade shoot ’em up game that defined a genre. Its smooth scrolling graphics, multiple enemy types, and challenging gameplay make it a must-play for fans of the genre. If you’ve never played Xevious before, I highly recommend checking it out. You won’t be disappointed.
Additional Information
- Xevious was developed by Namco, which is now known as Bandai Namco Entertainment.
- The game was designed by Masanobu Endoh, who also designed Galaga and Pac-Man.
- Xevious was one of the first arcade games to use a microprocessor.
- The game was ported to the Atari 2600 in 1983.
- Xevious has been re-released on numerous platforms over the years, including the Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One.
Review Score
8.5/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
