iPhone App: Space Invaders Infinity Gene
= 5 stars
Battle space aliens through nearly unrecognizable variations on the arcade classic Space Invaders.
The Good
- Inspired idea of a progressively more complex game with every level. The history of slide and shoot video games is retraced, as Space Invaders gave rise to Galaxians until you get a game like R-Type.
- High contrast, retro arcade look; a great fit for the iPhone’s vertical screen.
- Controls are simple but soon appreciated. Instead of a D-pad for movement, just the screen anywhere and drag to move your ship, and a new touch creates a new anchor point. The weapons default to auto-fire which becomes much appreciated during crazier levels.
- Great variety of weapons (rapid shot, search laser, wave, lock-on, gravity, round, classic), enemies (the classic invaders, huge bosses, sliding barriers, a “ladybug” with spider-like legs), and varied levels. Some levels feature tunnels to navigate, large mother ships that spew out tiny invaders, and obstacles that must be destroyed or dodged.
- New screens and features unlock whenever you earn enough points to spark an “evolution,” which increases the game’s replay value. Available screens and earned features are organized in a “tree” menu.
- A music feature, where you can choose a song from your iTunes library which creates a custom-made level.
The Bad
- Not too into “double tapping” to make a selection from the menu tree.
- Although black and white is in keeping with the retro theme, the game could use more color.
Conclusion
Largely because of the “evolution” feature that unlocks levels gradually, Space Invaders Infinity Gene really shines in regards to replay value. I’m essentially playing the whole game over on the “hard” difficulty and more surprises keep emerging. Highly recommended.
iTunes App Store Link: 