How to Play Google's New AR Space Invaders Game on Android and iOS

Space Invaders, the iconic arcade game, is turning 45 this year! To celebrate, Google and Taito, the original developer, have teamed up to create a new augmented reality (AR) version of the game for Android and iOS devices. This exciting new game, Space Invaders: World Defense, takes the classic gameplay and brings it to life in your real-world environment using your phone's camera.

Getting Started

To play Space Invaders: World Defense, you will need an Android phone or an iPhone. Simply download the game from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store and you're ready to go. The game is built on Google's ARCore platform, which means it runs on most phones without requiring any special hardware. Unfortunately, tablets are not supported.

Setting Up the Game

Once you have downloaded the game, the setup process is quick and easy. Start the game and you will be prompted to review and agree to the privacy and data agreements. You will also need to grant permission for the game to access your location. While not essential, using headphones can enhance your gaming experience.

After the initial setup, you will be presented with a mission brief that shows your location and weather. The game will then ask you to track a spacecraft in your real-world environment to calibrate the game. Make sure to stay in the same spot during this process to avoid any errors.

Gameplay

Space Invaders: World Defense follows the familiar gameplay of the original Space Invaders. The game is played in portrait orientation on your phone. Your goal is to shoot down the invading aliens that appear on your screen.

Controls

To aim and shoot, simply drag the crosshairs over the aliens. Keep an eye on the edge of your screen for arrows pointing to the aliens, indicating their position. Tap the screen to fire your weapon and take down the invaders.

Scoring and Progression

You earn points for each alien you successfully shoot down. Accumulate enough points and you will progress to the parallel invader dimension of the game. In this dimension, your path is predetermined and you must focus on eliminating as many aliens as possible.

As you climb the high scores tables, you will unlock special bonuses and power-ups. These will help you in your mission to defend the world from the alien invasion. Challenge yourself to reach the top of the rankings and show off your skills to players in your neighborhood!

Tips for a Great Gaming Experience

Here are some tips to enhance your experience while playing Space Invaders: World Defense:

1. Find a Safe and Open Outdoor Space:

Since this is an AR game, it is best played outdoors. Make sure to find a safe and open area to play where you can move freely without any obstacles or potential hazards.

2. Be Mindful of Your Surroundings:

While it's easy to get caught up in the excitement of the game, always be aware of your surroundings. Avoid playing near roads or rivers where you might be distracted and put yourself in danger.

3. Connect with Other Players:

Space Invaders: World Defense allows you to compete with other players in your neighborhood. Connect with fellow gamers, share strategies, and compete for the top spot on the leaderboards.

4. Experiment with Different Environments:

One of the unique features of this AR game is its ability to adapt to your real-world environment. Try playing in different locations and see how the game adjusts to your surroundings. You might discover new challenges and surprises!

Conclusion

Space Invaders: World Defense brings the classic game into the modern era with augmented reality. By combining the nostalgia of Space Invaders with the immersive experience of AR, Google and Taito have created a game that will entertain both longtime fans and newcomers alike. So grab your phone, head outside, and get ready to defend the world from the invading aliens!