Genre: Action / Shooter
Developer: Philips
Publisher: Philips
Year: 1980
Platform: Philips Videopac
Space Monster is a fixed shooter game for the Philips Videopac, presenting a fresh take on the classic Space Invaders formula. Players control a triangular laser cannon at the bottom of the screen that moves horizontally and fires upward to destroy incoming alien robots. The enemy formation includes a row of indestructible green shields, yellow rocket launchers, and pink robot invaders that move in sync, with the alien forces gradually advancing downward.
The game adds strategic depth through the use of three black blocks that serve both as cover and “lives.” When the player’s laser cannon is hit, it transforms into a vulnerable robot that must retreat under a block to regain the cannon. The titular Space Monster leads the alien forces and occasionally swoops down to directly challenge the player.
Space Monster features a match-based scoring system where the first side to score ten points wins, distinguishing it from traditional arcade shooters focused on high scores. Despite some limitations, the game’s unique mechanics and tactical elements have earned it a regarded place in the Videopac library.
