Absolutely fantastic game. It's hard to stand out with a run-and-gun game on the Spectrum but this is extremely memorable. It is particularly fascinating to see a modern level of polish and design applied to a 1980s computer and film franchise.
I remember when the two official Aliens games were released on the Spectrum and it was an unusual opportunity to compare two different design approaches. In the 1987 it was the first-person approach that was better executed (
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H-9wfWzBzY0) but now the crown goes to the side-view game.
This game features cut scenes, excellent (and appropriate) music and clever use of colour. The graphics and animation are clear and legible. The level design is logical, easy to read, claustrophobic and atmospheric, from crawl vents, industrial fans and flashing lights to puffs of steam - all extremely reminiscent of the production design in James Cameron's films.
The design is forgiving, with infinite lives, limited alien respawning and generous checkpoints. Character movement is nuanced with a controllable jump and an ability to crouch, crawl and jump down from crates. I like the fact that the guns use hitscan and have a digital ammo countdown, which is very cinematic. They also stun aliens and are just about effective against them. The grenades also have environment uses and a blast area you need to avoid.
Areas of the ship are quite distinct and often a game idea, like the beautiful red lasers in the reactor, are brought in once and then discarded. In this case you are given a simple example of the lasers to jump, followed by a variation and then a chance to show your mastery. This Nintendo-level of design.
I was somewhat surprised to actually finish a ZX Spectrum game but I felt that I genuinely enjoyed the story and the unfolding action without stretching my patience. I hope the engine can be used again for a sequel or maybe a Contra/Gryzor game.
