Space Invaders Extreme and Arkanoid DS enter the handheld realm

by: Randy - posted: 6/18/2008 1:02:00 AM

Shipped to North American retailers yesterday was Space Invaders Extreme for the Nintendo DS and PSP, and Arkanoid DS is on the ... (please see title of game).  I've only heard good things about Space Invaders Extreme, bringing in a new look, with enough new twists in the gameplay to freshen up this 30-year-old classic.  I have to admit, though, that Arkanoid DS would speak to a lot more of my childhood, since I played the heck out of it, and the hundreds of knock-offs through the years.

LEGENDARY GAMES REIMAGINED

SPACE INVADERS EXTREME AND ARKANOID DS LAUNCH TODAY

TAITO Rewrites Gaming History by Bringing Classic Arcade Games to Handheld Consoles

LOS ANGELES (June 17, 2008) – TAITO Corporation (TAITO™), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Square Enix Co., Ltd., announced that SPACE INVADERS EXTREME™ and ARKANOID™ DS were shipped to North American retailers today.

These highly anticipated releases are legendary titles reimagined for the 21^st century. SPACE INVADERS®, a worldwide sensation since its original release in 1978, has been reborn as SPACE INVADERS EXTREME for Nintendo DS™ and PSP^® (PlayStation®Portable) system. Celebrating its 30^th anniversary, SPACE INVADERS is as addictive as ever, with this new edition carrying on the classic gameplay experience while adding fast-paced new twists.  

Meanwhile, the 1986 blockbuster hit ARKANOID comes exclusively to Nintendo DS with multiple modes and playful new backgrounds. With ARKANOID DS, players can test their skills against other DS users through the multiplayer option.

Loved around the globe for generations, these milestone titles in computer game history are simply timeless. Both SPACE INVADERS EXTREME and ARKANOID DS were developed to appeal to fans of the original titles and a new generation of players alike. The exhilarating arcade experience is now portable and available on store shelves today.

 

Features: SPACE INVADERS EXTREME

• New Look: The classic design of the original SPACE INVADERS, now with revamped graphics and new background movies that add to the game’s excitement.
• New Music: Get in the groove with upbeat techno tunes that are synched to gameplay.
• New Mini-Games: Experience varied gameplay with mini-games (Rounds) that are launched mid-game – they add to the fun, and are a good way to rack up points.
• New Twists: Discover exciting twists to the classic game that provide exciting, fast-paced game play.
• New Functionalities:
  • DS Version
    • Worldwide (Japan, North America and Europe) two player competitive play and score ranking available via Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection.
    • Two player wireless competitive play and game sharing available
    • Compatible with Nintendo DS and Nintendo DS™ Lite Rumble Pak
  • PSP system Version
    • Two player competitive play available via ad hoc wireless connection

Features: ARKANOID DS

• Explore three game modes that offer varied gameplay designed for a wide range of users.
• Compete against two to four players via Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection, and enter high scores in the ranking system.
• Decorate ARKANOID DS with colorful designs by trading points gained through gameplay for fun backgrounds and icons.
• Rock to an irresistible soundtrack produced by Zuntata, TAITO’s award-winning sound team.

 

SPACE INVADERS EXTREME is rated E (Everyone). ARKANOID DS is rated E (Everyone). Please visit the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) website at www.esrb.org for more information about ratings.

SPACE INVADERS EXTREME will be available at North American retailers for the suggested retail price of $19.99 (USD). The official website can be found at http://www.taito.com/csm/title/2008/sie/index.html.

ARKANOID DS will be available at North American retailers for the suggested retail price of $19.99 (USD). The official website can be found at http://www.taito.com/csm/title/2008/arkanoid_ds/index.html.