Summary
- Release Year: 1987
- Genres: Adventure, Shooter
- Platforms: Amstrad CPC, Commodore 16, Commodore C64/128/MAX, MSX, ZX Spectrum
- Publishers: Electric Dreams Software
Aliens: The Computer Game (1987): A Retro Sci-Fi Horror Masterpiece
Released in 1987 for the Commodore 64, ZX Spectrum, and Amstrad CPC, Aliens: The Computer Game is a groundbreaking top-down shooter that perfectly captures the tense atmosphere and relentless horror of the iconic film. Developed by Software Studios and published by Electric Dreams Software, the game puts players in the role of a Colonial Marine squad tasked with investigating a distress call from the planet LV-426.
Gameplay
Aliens: The Computer Game is played from a top-down perspective, with players controlling a team of four Colonial Marines through a maze-like atmosphere processing plant. The game’s 255 rooms are filled with deadly Aliens, bio-mechanical growth, and other hazards.
The player can directly control any of the four Marines, each of whom has their own unique strengths and weaknesses. Alternatively, players can issue orders to the team from the Mobile Tactical Operations Bay (MTOB), a central command center that provides a strategic overview of the battlefield.
The Marines are equipped with a variety of weapons, including pulse rifles, flamethrowers, and grenades. They must use these weapons to clear out Aliens, destroy Alien eggs, and contain bio-mechanical growth.
The ultimate goal of the game is to reach the room that houses the Queen Alien and her nests. The Queen is a formidable enemy, and players must use all of their skills and resources to defeat her.
Atmosphere and Graphics
Aliens: The Computer Game is renowned for its atmospheric and immersive gameplay. The game’s dark and claustrophobic environments, combined with the constant threat of Alien attack, create a palpable sense of tension and dread.
The game’s graphics are simple but effective, capturing the look and feel of the film. The Aliens themselves are particularly well-animated, and their movements are both fluid and terrifying.
Legacy
Aliens: The Computer Game was a critical and commercial success, and is considered one of the best video game adaptations of a film ever made. The game’s innovative gameplay, atmospheric setting, and faithful recreation of the film’s universe have made it a cult classic among fans of both the film and the video game genre.
The game has been ported to numerous platforms over the years, including the Amiga, Atari ST, MSX, and PC. It has also been re-released on modern platforms, such as Steam and GOG.com.
Conclusion
Aliens: The Computer Game (1987) is a masterpiece of retro gaming that perfectly captures the essence of the iconic film. Its atmospheric gameplay, intense action, and strategic elements make it a must-play for fans of both the Alien franchise and the video game genre.
Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer to the series, Aliens: The Computer Game is a timeless classic that will provide hours of thrilling and terrifying entertainment.
Review Score
8/10
Art
Cover Art
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