Space Invaders is a classic arcade video game in which players control a space ship and try to shoot down waves of aliens. It is one of the most iconic and influential games in video gaming history.

Space Invaders was a phenomenon and key to starting the golden age of arcade games.

Gameplay:

  1. Objective: Players control a laser cannon that moves horizontally across the bottom of the screen. The goal is to shoot and destroy rows of alien invaders before they reach the bottom of the screen or destroy the player’s cannon.
  2. Aliens: The invaders move side to side and descend gradually, increasing in speed as more are eliminated.
  3. Obstacles: Shields are provided to protect the cannon but can be destroyed by both the aliens’ and player’s shots.
  4. Lives: Players have a limited number of lives, and the game ends when all lives are lost or the aliens reach the bottom.

Key Features:

  • Progressive Difficulty: As players eliminate invaders, the remaining ones move faster, creating tension.
  • High Scores: Encourages competition by allowing players to achieve and display high scores.
  • Simple Controls: Easy-to-learn gameplay with movement and a single fire button.

Build your own Space Invaders Game is available with a project breakdown on Coding Challenges.