Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

The core gameplay of this version of Space Invaders remains as timeless and addictive as ever. Players assume control of a laser base, moving horizontally across the bottom of the screen while fending off descending waves of alien invaders. What sets this release apart is the inclusion of the classic mode that allows you to choose from several virtual arcade cabinet backdrops—upright, black & white, color, and mirror styles—recreating the distinct feel of early 90s arcade halls.

Beyond the solo experience, the versus mode injects fresh competitive tension. Two players face off in a split-screen duel, each striving not only to survive the relentless onslaught of invaders but also to outpace and outscore their opponent. This head-to-head setup transforms the familiar single-player challenge into a frenetic race for galactic supremacy, encouraging both tactical shooting and opportunistic power‐ups.

Platform differences add further variety. The Game Boy cartridge brings one- and two-player modes with the system’s signature monochrome palette. Slotting the same cart into a Super Game Boy unlocks the full quartet of cabinet styles from the SNES adaptation. On the PC Engine CD, the cosmic versus and omake modes introduce novel backdrops and rules, while the WonderSwan edition pares down cabinet choices to black & white but retains the crucial competitive mode.

Graphics

Visually, this rendition sticks close to the pixel-perfect look of Space Invaders DX. The alien formations and defensive bunkers are rendered with crisp, angular sprites that harken back to the original’s minimalist charm. Selecting different cabinet frames around the playfield adds a layer of nostalgic authenticity, letting you toggle between monochrome glass and the rainbow hues of color units.

On Game Boy hardware, the action is restricted to shades of dark gray and light gray. Though simplistic, this palette still delivers clear, discernible enemy patterns and bunker outlines. In Super Game Boy mode, however, you’re treated to a warm, retro color wash that accentuates each alien’s unique silhouette and the neon glow of your laser shots.

The PC Engine CD version’s “cosmic versus” and “omake” modes showcase elaborate anime-style backgrounds, where the battlefield is framed by richly illustrated characters and starfields. These decorative scenes add a surprising sense of personality without obscuring the core gameplay. Conversely, the WonderSwan’s black-and-white display keeps things austere, ensuring smooth performance and quick readability even on the system’s smaller screen.

Story

Space Invaders has never been renowned for narrative depth, and this iteration is no exception. The premise remains straightforward: waves of hostile extraterrestrials descend upon Earth, and it’s up to you to hold the line. There are no cutscenes, no branching dialogue, and no elaborate backstory—just a pure, arcade-style confrontation against pixelated foes.

Despite its minimal storytelling, the release sprinkles in visual cues—particularly in the PC Engine’s modes—where anime-inspired art hints at an interstellar conflict of cosmic proportions. These backdrops, while not pushing any plot forward, give the player a playful sense of scale and context, as if the fight for humanity’s safety is being documented by a roving space reporter.

Ultimately, the appeal lies in the universality of its premise: defend your planet, rack up a high score, and survive as long as possible. The lack of narrative intricacy means there’s no fatigue from repeated playthroughs; each session resets the stakes, keeping the experience as immediate and captivating as the first time you dropped in a coin at an arcade cabinet.

Overall Experience

As a package, this Space Invaders adaptation strikes a fine balance between nostalgic authenticity and platform-specific enhancements. Classic mode faithfully recreates the arcade sensation, while versus modes—split-screen or cosmic—inject social competition and visual flair. The ability to switch cabinet frames or enjoy anime-themed backdrops caters to both purists and players seeking novel presentation twists.

Hardware considerations will influence your preferred version. Purists on the go may gravitate toward the monochrome Game Boy release, whereas SNES owners will appreciate the added color and frame choices via Super Game Boy. Those seeking a bit of fan service will find the PC Engine CD’s artistic backgrounds charming, though the core gameplay remains unchanged across all formats. The WonderSwan edition, while limited in palette, delivers the same tight controls in a compact form factor.

For collectors and newcomers alike, this iteration of Space Invaders delivers uncomplicated, high-intensity arcade action. It preserves the simple joy of blasting descending aliens while offering enough variation—through cabinet modes, competitive play, and aesthetic flourishes—to keep dedicated fans engaged. If you’re looking for a distilled arcade classic with a few modern touches, this is one low-cost invasion you won’t regret deploying your quarters for.

Retro Replay Score

6.7/10