Alien attack as ‘Space Invaders’ game turns 40
BLOCK graphic aliens dropped down the windows of a Tokyo skyscraper before being blasted into oblivion by gamers celebrating 40 years of cool arcade sensation Space Invaders.
Four decades after the game took the world by storm, a hitech exhibition in Japan is allowing enthusiasts to save the world from extra-terrestrial invasion in a variety of novel ways at the “Play! Space Invaders!” exhibit.
In one installation, the game is projected inside the windows of the Mori Tower skyscraper’s 52nd floor, against the glittering backdrop of Tokyo’s night skyline.
Elsewhere, gamers interact more closely with their alien opponents, thanks to motion-sensor technology that allows them to stamp or hit the invaders as they approach on the floors or walls.
And for those with a touch of nostalgia, the exhibit also features the traditional game machines that first tempted players in arcades decades ago.
Father of two Keiji Ishihara, 50, remembers the frenzy that surrounded the game’s original release – when he was 10.
“It was a big shock, a fever swept Tokyo, but boys like me did not have much money to play at the time,” he said, smiling as his son blasted away an alien.
“It’s beyond sci-fi that we can access Space Invaders like this!”
Creator Tomohiro Nishikado said when the game was released in 1978, Japan’s tech sector was still in its infancy.
“At the time, computers were not well known, so I learnt everything by myself, coming up with the characters and the concept.
“I did everything on my own. Looking back, it is impressive and I would say that I am surprised I managed to achieve this.”
Takayuki Taketa, 46, first played the game in a bowling alley and was involved in the development of its revival as an art director.
“It’s fantastic to see the game being played again,” he said, as electronic bleeps and bloops around him indicated the progress being made in the war against the aliens.
“After working on the project, I am happy to see people’s reactions and them enjoying it.” – AFP