Project Just, the designers of Space Invaders Extreme 2, are evil geniuses. In combining the ancient arcade shooter with both bingo and roulette, they’ve created what is arguably the most addictive game ever. Is it a sinister probing of human frailties, or a genuine attempt to revamp a classic? It doesn’t really matter, because whatever it is, it’s brilliant!

Improving on the already winning formula of the first game (not to mention the 1978 original), this time bonus rounds take place simultaneously with the main game. The twist is that they occur on the top screen, often forcing you to contend with two formations of invaders at once as well as a time limit. Whew.

The new bingo feature is an interesting addition, too. A multi-coloured nine-by-nine grid appears at the top of the screen and challenges you to complete lines by shooting down multiple aliens of matching colours. It’s furiously addictive stuff, and it forces you to think before you shoot. This is no easy task given the frantic nature of the gameplay.

Unashamedly – no, joyously – retro, Space Invaders Extreme 2 revels in its heritage but manages to feel fresh at the same time. It’s also one of those rare games that constantly evolves as you play. Proof that classics never die, they just get better. Now one more game before lunchtime…

Oct 19, 2009