1979: Invasion Earth

1979: Invasion Earth is a retro-style fixed-screen arcade shooter that pays homage to classic space defense games. Set in a sci-fi/futuristic era where Earth faces an alien onslaught, players take control of a defensive craft positioned at the bottom of the screen, firing upward to repel waves of descending enemies. With its side-view perspective, flip-screen mechanics, and action-packed gameplay, the game captures the essence of vintage shoot ’em ups while offering a modern twist through accessible controls and nostalgic visuals.

1979: Invasion Earth: Review

In the vast landscape of retro-inspired shooters, 1979: Invasion Earth stands out as a nostalgic homage to the golden age of arcade gaming. Developed by Jonni The Dodger and published by Ecomasphere, this fixed-screen shooter captures the essence of classic games like Space Invaders while adding modern twists. Released in January 2017, 1979: Invasion Earth has carved out a niche for itself among enthusiasts of casual, arcade-style gaming. This review will delve into the game’s development history, narrative themes, gameplay mechanics, world-building, reception, and its enduring legacy.

Development History & Context

1979: Invasion Earth was developed by Jonni The Dodger, a veteran game developer with a deep appreciation for retro gaming. The game’s development was driven by a personal passion for the classic arcade experience, particularly the influence of Space Invaders. Jonni’s journey into game development began with the ZX81, a home computer from the early 1980s, which sparked his interest in programming and game design.

The development process for 1979: Invasion Earth was facilitated by Yoyo Games’ Gamemaker Studio Pro, a powerful tool for indie developers. This software allowed Jonni to create original graphics and music, ensuring that the game had a unique identity while paying homage to its retro inspirations. The development was not without its challenges; Jonni faced personal health issues, including multiple hernias, which temporarily halted progress. Despite these setbacks, the game was completed and released on January 19, 2017.

At the time of its release, the gaming landscape was dominated by high-budget, graphically intensive titles. 1979: Invasion Earth offered a refreshing contrast, appealing to players who missed the simplicity and challenge of classic arcade games. The game’s fixed-screen shooter mechanics and retro aesthetics resonated with a niche audience, providing a nostalgic experience for older gamers and an introduction to retro gaming for younger players.

Narrative & Thematic Deep Dive

1979: Invasion Earth is set in the year 1979, a time when the world was on the brink of a technological revolution. The game’s narrative revolves around an alien invasion of Earth, with players taking on the role of a lone defender tasked with saving humanity. The story is minimalistic, focusing more on gameplay than elaborate plotlines. However, the game’s themes of resistance and survival add depth to the experience.

The characters in 1979: Invasion Earth are largely faceless, with the player’s character being a generic space shooter pilot. The dialogue is sparse, consisting mainly of in-game prompts and instructions. The game’s strength lies in its ability to convey a sense of urgency and danger through its gameplay mechanics rather than through complex storytelling.

The underlying themes of 1979: Invasion Earth revolve around the struggle against overwhelming odds. The game’s difficulty increases with each level, challenging players to adapt and improve their skills. This theme of perseverance in the face of adversity is a common trope in retro gaming, and 1979: Invasion Earth executes it effectively. The game also touches on the theme of nostalgia, appealing to players who grew up with classic arcade games and long for a simpler time in gaming.

Gameplay Mechanics & Systems

1979: Invasion Earth offers a variety of gameplay modes, each providing a unique challenge. The core gameplay loop involves shooting waves of alien invaders while avoiding their attacks. The game’s controls are intuitive, with players using the keyboard or a compatible joypad to move and shoot.

Arcade Mode is the game’s primary mode, offering a classic shooter experience. Players start with three lives and must clear each stage before advancing to different zones. The difficulty ramps up quickly, requiring players to develop strategies and reflexes to progress.

Skillshot Mode is a more relaxed mode where enemy aliens do not shoot back. The challenge lies in destroying a set number of alien UFOs to advance stages. This mode is ideal for players who enjoy a slower-paced experience.

Survival Mode is the most intense, with players starting with one life and a timer running. Waves of enemies increase in intensity every 30 seconds, testing the player’s endurance and skill. This mode is perfect for players who enjoy high-stakes, adrenaline-pumping gameplay.

Two Player Battle Mode is a local multiplayer mode where two players can compete in sharpshooting rounds. This mode adds a social element to the game, allowing friends to challenge each other in a friendly competition.

The game’s UI is clean and uncluttered, with essential information such as lives, score, and timer displayed prominently. The user interface is designed to be intuitive, ensuring that players can focus on the gameplay without distractions.

World-Building, Art & Sound

1979: Invasion Earth excels in creating a retro-futuristic atmosphere. The game’s visual direction is heavily inspired by classic arcade games, with pixel art graphics that capture the aesthetic of the 1970s and 1980s. The art style is consistent throughout the game, with each level featuring unique backgrounds and enemy designs that fit the retro theme.

The sound design in 1979: Invasion Earth is equally impressive. The game features original music composed by Morten Barfod Søegaard, which perfectly complements the retro aesthetic. The sound effects are crisp and satisfying, adding to the overall immersion. The game’s audio design is a crucial element in creating a nostalgic experience, transporting players back to the arcades of the past.

The world-building in 1979: Invasion Earth is minimalistic but effective. The game’s setting is Earth in 1979, a time when the world was on the cusp of technological advancements. The game’s levels are set in various iconic cities around the world, including London, Moscow, Tokyo, and New York. Each level features unique environmental hazards and enemy types, adding variety to the gameplay.

Reception & Legacy

Upon its release, 1979: Invasion Earth received mixed reviews from critics and players alike. The game’s retro aesthetics and gameplay mechanics were praised for their authenticity, but some critics noted that the game lacked depth and innovation. Despite these criticisms, the game found a dedicated fanbase among retro gaming enthusiasts.

The game’s reception evolved over time, with many players appreciating its nostalgic value and challenging gameplay. 1979: Invasion Earth has since gained a cult following, with players continuing to enjoy its retro-inspired shooter experience.

The game’s legacy lies in its ability to capture the essence of classic arcade gaming while adding modern twists. 1979: Invasion Earth has influenced subsequent retro-inspired shooters, demonstrating that there is still an audience for nostalgic gaming experiences. The game’s success has also inspired other indie developers to explore the retro gaming genre, contributing to its enduring popularity.

Conclusion

1979: Invasion Earth is a testament to the enduring appeal of retro gaming. Developed by Jonni The Dodger with a deep love for classic arcade games, this fixed-screen shooter captures the essence of the golden age of gaming while adding modern elements. The game’s challenging gameplay, retro aesthetics, and nostalgic atmosphere make it a standout title in the genre.

Despite mixed initial reviews, 1979: Invasion Earth has carved out a niche for itself among retro gaming enthusiasts. Its legacy lies in its ability to evoke nostalgia while providing a challenging and enjoyable gaming experience. For players who appreciate the simplicity and challenge of classic arcade games, 1979: Invasion Earth is a must-play title. Its place in video game history is secure, serving as a reminder of the timeless appeal of retro gaming.