Space Invaders Overview
Space Invaders presents a scenario where Earth requires defense against an alien assault. The player operates a laser cannon positioned at the screen's lower edge, targeting descending rows of hostile invaders.
Success depends on eliminating all aliens to progress to subsequent levels, which become challenging. The game ends if any invader successfully lands or if the player's limited supply of laser cannons is destroyed by enemy bombs. Points are awarded for each alien destroyed.
Aliens advance by moving horizontally and descending one row each time they reach the screen's edge. Intermittently, a flying saucer appears at the top, offering a chance for bonus points if shot. Defensive shields are positioned above the player's cannon; these block both enemy bombs and the player's own laser fire.