Super Space Invaders review - Sega Master System

Determined not to be outdone by the hordes of new upstarts, those Space Invaders are back for a second go at conquering planet Earth. What's more, they've taken a few tips from their present-day counterparts and have not only learnt to very their attack patterns, but they've also brought along some huge end-of-level guardians to stop any would-be defenders like you dead in their tracks.

Super Space Invaders is, as you may have guessed, a beefed-up version of the classic 1978 Taito coin-op, Space Invaders. This time it features scrolling playfields, extra weapons, boss aliens, secret levels and all manner of other new, improved formula-related shenanigans. The object of the game for anyone who's been asleep for the past thirteen years is simply to stop the aliens landing at the bottom of the screen. If you can manage this for thirty-six screens, the invaders are repelled forever and you are the hero of the galaxy. If not, this could be the end of civilisation as we know it.

What the Mean Machines staff thought

The Master System isn't exactly famous for having a surfeit of shoot 'em ups, so does this one fill the gap? Well, if you like Space Invaders, yes. The graphics are really good, including some especially nice backdrops, the sound is none too horrendous either and there are plenty of options, including the great two-player mode. Still, however you disguise it, it's Space Invaders. The game is good fun for a while, but I'm a little doubtful as to it's lastability, as it all gets a bit repetitive, despite all the new formations and weapons.

Unlike Rad, I really got into this rave from the grave. The graphics are very nice, there are plenty of new features (including some great end-of-level baddies) and the game is fun and varied enough to keep you blasting. The cattle mutilation screen is a real laugh and if you're skillful you can rack up a whole heap of bonus points. The only problem I found is that the game doesn't get tough enough - it's not a complete pushover, but a bit more challenge would have helped give it more lasting appeal. Still, Super Space Invaders is a simple, but entertaining blast and with the extra appeal of the simultaneous two-player action is a must-see for Master Systems shooting fans.