Space Invaders, created by Tomohiro Nishikado and released by Taito in 1978, is widely recognised as one of the most influential video games of all time. Its gameplay, simple mechanics, and innovative use of sound and graphics set the stage for the modern gaming industry. Space Invaders not only revolutionised the arcade scene but also spawned a franchise that has endured for decades, influencing countless other games and shaping popular culture. This article explores the cultural impact of the Space Invaders franchise, summarising each game, examining its commercial performance, and discussing its legacy in the gaming world.
The Original Space Invaders (1978)
Summary
The original Space Invaders centres around a player-controlled cannon that moves horizontally across the bottom of the screen, shooting upwards at waves of descending aliens. The objective is to eliminate all the invaders before they reach the ground. The game introduced a scoring system and increasing difficulty levels, where the speed of the aliens would escalate as more were destroyed.
Platform and Commercial Performance
Released in arcades, Space Invaders became a sensation, leading to a coin-operated arcade boom. It grossed over $500 million in its first year alone, making it one of the highest-grossing video games of its time. Its success led to numerous conversions on home consoles, including the Atari å2600, which further expanded its reach.
Space Invaders Part II (1979)
Summary
Space Invaders Part II followed the original and introduced new features such as the ability for players to earn extra lives, a wider variety of alien types, and enhanced graphics. The game also included a two-player mode, allowing for competitive gameplay.
Platform and Commercial Performance
Released primarily in arcades, Space Invaders Part II saw moderate success, building on the legacy of its predecessor. However, it did not achieve the same overwhelming commercial success as the original, possibly due to the saturation of the market with similar titles.
Space Invaders Deluxe (1980)
Summary
Space Invaders Deluxe retained the core mechanics of the original while adding more advanced graphics and sound. Players faced new challenges, including a shield that could be destroyed by enemy fire, increasing the strategic elements of gameplay.
Platform and Commercial Performance
This title was also primarily available in arcade form. While it didn’t reach the iconic status of the original, it maintained a solid player base and further introduced the franchise to new fans.
Space Invaders ’91 (1991)
Summary
Space Invaders ’91 was a modernised version that introduced updated graphics and new gameplay mechanics, including a variety of power-ups. It featured a more dynamic soundtrack and allowed players to use a rotating cannon for better targeting.
Platform and Commercial Performance
Released in arcades and on home consoles, including the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES), Space Invaders ’91 was a commercial success, appealing to both nostalgic fans and a new generation of gamers.
Space Invaders Extreme (2007)
Summary
Space Invaders Extreme reinvigorated the franchise with a fresh take on the classic formula. It featured vibrant graphics, an electronic soundtrack, and a more complex scoring system that incentivised skilful play. The game had a distinct visual style that appealed to the modern gamer.
Platform and Commercial Performance
Launched on the Nintendo DS, PlayStation Portable (PSP), and Xbox Live Arcade, Space Invaders Extreme received critical acclaim and commercial success, selling over a million copies across platforms and revitalising interest in the franchise.
Space Invaders Infinity Gene (2009)
Summary
Space Invaders Infinity Gene was a unique evolution of the franchise, incorporating elements of a rhythm game and allowing players to unlock new levels and gameplay mechanics as they progressed. The game emphasised a continuous, evolving experience with a strong focus on music and visuals.
Platform and Commercial Performance
Available on iOS and PlayStation Network, Space Invaders Infinity Gene garnered positive reviews for its innovative approach, selling over 500,000 copies and contributing to the legacy of the franchise by attracting a broader audience.
Cultural Impact
Pioneering the Arcade Era
Space Invaders is often credited with pioneering the arcade gaming era. Its immense popularity led to the establishment of arcade culture in the late 1970s and early 1980s, transforming social spaces and contributing to the rise of video game arcades as entertainment hubs.
Influence on Game Design
The gameplay mechanics introduced by Space Invaders, such as high-score tracking and progressively challenging levels, have become staples in game design. Many modern games owe their structure and scoring systems to the innovations introduced by Space Invaders.
Impact on Popular Culture
The franchise has permeated popular culture, with references appearing in films, television shows, and various forms of media. The iconic imagery of the pixelated aliens has made its way into art, fashion, and music, further solidifying Space Invaders as a cultural touchstone.
The Legacy of Space Invaders
- Merchandising and Media Adaptations: The popularity of Space Invaders led to an array of merchandise, including toys, clothing, and even comic books. The franchise’s iconic alien designs have been featured in various adaptations, showcasing its versatility and enduring popularity.
- Competitive Gaming: The high-score chasing aspect of Space Invaders laid the groundwork for competitive gaming. Tournaments and competitions emerged, forming a foundation for the esports scene we see today. Players would often gather in arcades to compete for the highest scores, fostering a community around the game.
- Indie Game Development: The influence of Space Invaders can be seen in numerous indie game titles that borrow its mechanics and aesthetics. Games like Galaga Legions and Geometry Wars have drawn inspiration from Space Invaders, demonstrating the franchise’s lasting impact on game design.
Games Inspired by Space Invaders
The legacy of Space Invaders extends far beyond its own franchise, influencing a plethora of games across various genres. Here are some notable titles that were inspired by or directly reference Space Invaders:
- Galaga (1981): A direct successor to Space Invaders, Galaga introduced new mechanics, such as enemy capture and a more complex scoring system. This game remains a staple of arcade gaming and has spawned its own sequels and remakes.
- Defender (1981): While differing in gameplay, Defender took cues from Space Invaders in its alien themes and the basic premise of defending against waves of enemies. It expanded on the concepts of strategy and movement within a shooter format.
- Asteroids (1979): Although it features different gameplay, Asteroids shares the same space theme and the concept of shooting down enemies. Its success helped to further solidify the viability of arcade shooters.
- Resogun (2013): A modern take on the classic shoot ’em up genre, Resogun features a mechanic where players must save humans while shooting waves of enemies, reminiscent of the core premise of Space Invaders. The game received critical acclaim for its visuals and gameplay.
- Space Invaders: Infinity Gene (2009): As a direct descendant of the original, this game not only pays homage to Space Invaders but also innovates on the formula by introducing evolving gameplay and a rhythm-based scoring system.
Modern Revivals and Adaptations
The enduring legacy of Space Invaders has led to various revivals and adaptations in modern gaming. These include:
- Mobile Games: The popularity of smartphones has seen several adaptations of Space Invaders for mobile platforms, allowing new generations to experience the game. Titles like Space Invaders: Get Even and Space Invaders Extreme have succeeded on mobile devices.
- Remakes and Collections: Taito has released several remakes and collections, such as Space Invaders Extreme and Space Invaders Anniversary, which compile classic games and offer updated graphics and gameplay for new audiences.
- Virtual Reality (VR): The franchise is even making strides into the VR realm, with adaptations that allow players to experience the iconic gameplay in a fully immersive environment.
Conclusion
The Space Invaders franchise is not just a significant piece of gaming history; it is a cultural phenomenon that has shaped the landscape of video games and popular culture. From its groundbreaking arcade debut to its continued relevance in modern gaming, Space Invaders has left an indelible mark on the industry.
The franchise’s influence is evident in the design of countless games, the emergence of competitive gaming, and its lasting presence in pop culture. As new generations of gamers discover the charm of Space Invaders, its legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire and entertain for years to come.
Final Thoughts
Space Invaders stands as a testament to the power of simple yet engaging gameplay. Its cultural impact transcends the boundaries of gaming, making it an important part of our collective entertainment history. With ongoing adaptations and a dedicated fan base, the franchise remains alive and well, proving that even the simplest ideas can have a profound effect on the world.
