Arcade Archives: Alien Crush – A Retro Space Pinball Experience!

Alien Crush, originally released as an arcade game in 1985 by Nihon System, throws players into a futuristic pinball experience unlike any other. It’s not your typical “bump the ball and aim for the bumpers” affair. No, this is space pinball with attitude – complete with a narrative arc involving aliens and the fate of Earth!

This title was recently re-released on the Nintendo Switch eShop through Hamster Corporation’s “Arcade Archives” series, allowing a new generation to experience this retro gem. While it may lack the graphical fidelity and complex mechanics of modern pinball games, Alien Crush compensates with its unique gameplay, challenging levels, and a dash of cheesy sci-fi charm.

Journey to Defeat the Zarkon Empire!

The premise is straightforward: aliens from the Zarkon Empire are threatening Earth, and you, the player, must use a powerful pinball machine known as the “Crusher” to defeat them. Each level represents a different stage of the Crusher’s journey, with distinct layouts and challenges based on alien planets.

But this isn’t just about hitting targets and racking up points. Alien Crush introduces interactive elements that fundamentally alter the pinball experience:

• Special “Pinball Zones”: Certain areas of the table trigger unique events when the ball enters them. These could involve battling mini-bosses, activating defensive shields, or even manipulating gravity to create new paths for the ball.

• “Alien Power Ups”: Collect power-ups scattered across the table to enhance your pinball abilities. These might boost your score multiplier, give you extra balls, or even temporarily transform the table’s layout.

• Multiple Levels with Escalating Difficulty: Alien Crush features a series of increasingly challenging levels. From the initial asteroid fields of “Planet Zarkon” to the fiery inferno of “Solaris,” each stage demands mastery of the game’s mechanics and strategic ball control.

Retro Aesthetics with a Modern Twist!

Visually, Alien Crush retains its classic arcade charm. The pixelated graphics may seem dated by today’s standards, but they exude a nostalgic appeal that transports players back to the golden age of arcades.

The sound design is equally reminiscent, featuring catchy electronic music and retro sound effects that add to the overall experience.

Table 1: Key Features of Alien Crush:

Why Alien Crush Still Holds Up!

While modern pinball simulators boast intricate physics and complex table designs, Alien Crush offers a unique blend of retro simplicity and engaging gameplay. Its innovative “pinball zones” and power-ups add a layer of depth rarely seen in traditional pinball games. The sci-fi narrative, albeit cheesy, adds context to the experience, turning a simple arcade game into a mini space opera.

If you’re looking for a nostalgic pinball experience with a unique twist, Alien Crush is definitely worth checking out. Its accessible gameplay and quirky charm will appeal to both seasoned pinball veterans and newcomers alike. Just be prepared for a challenge - those aliens aren’t going down without a fight!