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Alien 3 (video game)

From Alfawiki
Probe Software
IndustryVideo game development
Headquarters
United Kingdom
,
United Kingdom
ProductsAlien 3 (video game)

Alien 3 (presented as ALIEN3) is a Shoot 'em up title inspired by the 1992 motion picture. Originally launched for the Genesis and Amiga in 1992, it was subsequently released on platforms including Commodore 64, Game Boy, Game Gear, Nintendo Entertainment System, Super Nintendo Entertainment System, and Master System. The main development was handled by Probe Software, while the Game Boy version was produced by Bits Studios.

Gameplay

In Alien 3, players experience a side-scrolling run-and-gun adventure where they assume control of Ellen Ripley within the Fiorina 161 prison colony, as depicted in the film. Ripley is equipped with various weapons such as pulse rifles, flamethrowers, and grenades to combat foes like Aliens and Facehuggers. An on-screen motion tracker assists in detecting nearby dangers.

Objectives within levels are accessed through computer terminals that assign tasks including sealing doors to prevent Alien incursions and rescuing captive prisoners. Each stage imposes a time constraint; failure to complete objectives within this limit results in losing a life. The game concludes with an encounter against the Alien Queen.

Stage count and features differ across versions: the SNES edition includes six stages and utilizes a password system; the Genesis release boasts 15 stages with larger Alien sprites; the Amiga version offers 14 levels featuring slightly slower gameplay compared to Genesis but remains largely similar. The Commodore 64 port closely resembles the Amiga version but presents modified level designs. The Master System variant aligns with Genesis layouts while introducing a two-player mode. Uniquely, the Game Boy adaptation employs an overhead viewpoint, distinguishing it from other iterations.

These distinctions illustrate strategic tailoring for varied hardware and market demands, broadening the game's accessibility across numerous platforms.

Release

The Genesis edition was initially slated for a U.S. launch in summer 1992 but ultimately arrived in October 1992 throughout North America and Europe. The Amiga version followed with a European release in November 1992. In the United States, the Game Boy version was released in January 1993, followed by the NES edition in March 1993, and the SNES version in June 1993; the SNES launch in the UK occurred in July 1993. The Commodore 64 version was introduced in Europe by November 1993.

Reception

GamePro commended the SNES edition for its music, sound effects, and visuals, describing it as "highly original" and appealing to followers of the Alien 3 franchise. Super Play praised its impressive graphics and engaging gameplay that effectively leveraged the license without strictly following the movie's plot. AllGame highlighted smooth animation and quality sound on the SNES version despite its predominantly gray, metallic aesthetic.

Nintendo Power applauded the SNES iteration’s action sequences, audio design, graphics, and variety of missions but criticized aspects related to accessing blueprints. Nintendo Magazine System valued the number of levels and sound but pointed out challenging controls. The Game Boy release received accolades for its music and cinematic elements but faced criticism due to limited sound effects and sluggish controls.

AllGame described the NES version as atmospheric, featuring a somber color scheme and ominous soundtrack that avoided repetitive shooting mechanics. GamePro noted that the Genesis version balanced arcade-style action with suspenseful elements fitting the film's tone, praising its music. AllGame acknowledged solid gameplay and detailed stage design on Genesis but found audio quality lacking. Sega Force praised Genesis controls, visual presentation, level diversity, and suspenseful soundtrack, deeming it essential for fans of the movie.

The Master System and Game Gear editions were praised by Sega Force for their graphics, music, sound effects, and responsive controls despite critiques regarding repetitive gameplay. GamePro recognized challenging gameplay on Game Gear despite hardware constraints. Mean Machines Sega appreciated character animations and soundtrack on Game Gear but criticized sound effects and repetitive backgrounds. AllGame’s review of Game Gear mentioned some AI shortcomings but lauded its combination of exploration and action elements.

The Amiga version received acclaim from CU Amiga for its graphics, sound effects, musical score, and status as an outstanding adaptation from film to game. Reviews of the Commodore 64 edition from Commodore Force highlighted graphics, audio quality, level design, and options despite occasional glitches; meanwhile, Commodore Format described its gameplay as standard yet well-paced with tension generated by time limits.

Entertainment Weekly awarded an A− grade, emphasizing the game's armed protagonist battling waves of enemies compared to the film’s limited weaponry.

Accolades

At GameFan's 1992 Golden Megawards, the Genesis edition earned Best Movie Game honors, chosen by three out of four editors. The SNES version won Best Action/Adventure game at the 1993 Golden Megawards and was runner-up for Best Movie Game behind Genesis's Disney's Aladdin. In 1995, Total! placed it at number 30 in their Top 100 SNES Games list for its atmospheric visuals and compelling platform shooter gameplay. IGN ranked the SNES edition at number 56 among their Top 100 SNES Games selections.

External links

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