Aliens Online
| Company type | Video game |
|---|---|
| Industry | Video games |
| Founded | 1998 |
| Products | Aliens Online (video game) |
Aliens Online was a multiplayer first-person shooter released in 1998 for Microsoft Windows, now discontinued, and inspired by the sci-fi horror movie Aliens.
Gameplay
The game showcased asymmetric team play with larger player counts than many contemporaries in the first-person shooter genre, incorporating class-based roles and elements typical of RPGs. Participants aligned themselves with either the United States Colonial Marines or the Aliens. Initially, six distinct maps were available, with an additional three introduced through later updates.
- Within the Colonial Marine team, players could select from Medic, Scout, Soldier, and Heavy Weapons classes. Progression in rank and formation of fireteams unlocked superior weaponry and increased health. Marines utilized the iconic motion tracker from the film to detect Aliens, which only registered moving targets. Subsequent patches introduced proximity mines as a tactical option.
- The Hive Alien side featured classes such as Face Hugger, Drone, Queen, and Empress. Aliens benefited from enhanced mobility by navigating vents and ducts, alongside a comprehensive radar system reflecting their hive awareness. Their attacks were melee-based, employing claws and tail strikes. Each map permitted one player to take on the Queen or Empress role, with the ability to switch freely among drone forms. Players earned points by eliminating Marines but lost points upon death—except Face Huggers, who did not incur point penalties when killed.
Development
Announced in June 1997, the game's production budget was set at $450,000 USD.
Release
The title was offered as a free download with automatic updates; however, participation required a $9.95 monthly subscription to GameStorm for online access. The service was discontinued in 2000 following GameStorm's acquisition by Electronic Arts.
Reception
Aliens Online generally garnered favorable critiques. Chris Gregson of GameSpot strongly recommended it to enthusiasts of Aliens. Brooks Peck and Craig E. Engler from Science Fiction Weekly commended the beta version despite technical issues, emphasizing its attraction for both fans and dedicated gamers. Next Generation regarded it as a valuable addition to the GameStorm lineup but noted limited diversity in content.
In a retrospective review, Stephen Kleckner of GamesBeat highlighted problems with game balance and level design, compounded by period-specific technology that caused lag during online play.
At the first Interactive Achievement Awards, Aliens Online received a nomination for "Online Game of the Year" from the Academy of Interactive Arts & Sciences, though the honor ultimately went to Ultima Online.