Space Invaders-like game for the Playdate

OneBit Invaders (Playdate) is a free action game created by indie developer oscarbraindead. It’s a 2D shooter title developed for the portable video game console Playdate and was inspired by the classic arcade hit Space Invaders. In it, players will fight off waves of alien invaders to save their homes.

Compared to other ports and interpretations of the classic game like Space Invaders (for ZX Spectrum/TS2068/TC2068), OneBit Invaders (Playdate) follows a similar approach that stays faithful to the original in terms of presentation and gameplay. It does add some unique mechanics of its own, though.

A charming take on a classic

When talking about retro gaming, Space Invaders will always be part of the conversation. The classic arcade game has made a big impact on the video game industry and inspired many games that came after. Of course, there’s nothing quite like experiencing the original. That’s why games like OneBit Invaders exist and is one that was specifically made to be enjoyed on the Playdate handheld gaming console.

OneBit Invaders (Playdate) does not stray too far from the original as far as gameplay and overall presentation go. You’ll still face off against waves of varying enemy and mini-boss formations, with your shield posts to help absorb some of their attacks. UFOs will occasionally appear that will provide power-ups and bonuses if you hit them, making your fights and attempts at high scores a little easier.

Unique to the Playdate, you can control your ship with its signature crank mechanism for potentially more precise movements. You can also adjust difficulty levels if things get too tough for you. One thing to note is that there’s currently an installation issue with the game, but the developer has provided a workaround solution on the official web page to help you out with this.

OneBit invasion

If you were able to secure yourself a Playdate handheld console, you’ll be glad to know that there’s another great game that was developed for it in the form of OneBit Invaders (Playdate). It plays just like the original but with a look unique to the device. Controlling your ship with the crank is also a clever way to utilize its unique mechanism. Highly recommended.