Space Invaders History Timeline

1978: Creation of Space Invaders

September 1978: *Space Invaders* was created by Japanese game designer Tomohiro Nishikado. It was initially developed and released by Taito in Japan and later worldwide.

Game Details: *Space Invaders* was a fixed shooter where the player controls a laser cannon to shoot down waves of descending alien invaders. It was one of the first video games to feature continuous gameplay and a score that could be saved.

Source: Taito History

1979: Success in Arcades

*Space Invaders* became a massive hit in Japan and quickly spread to arcades worldwide. It is often credited with popularizing video games and establishing the video game industry as a commercial force.

Source: Space Invaders on Wikipedia

1980: Port to Home Consoles

The *Space Invaders* arcade game was ported to the Atari 2600 in 1980, marking one of the earliest home console adaptations of an arcade game. The game’s success on home consoles helped cement the Atari 2600's dominance in the early home gaming market.

Source: Space Invaders on Atari 2600

1981: Continued Influence and Cultural Impact

*Space Invaders* became a cultural phenomenon in the 1980s. Merchandising, comic books, and even songs like "Space Invader" by The Pretenders were inspired by the game.

Source: Cultural Impact of Space Invaders

1982: Space Invaders and the Video Game Industry

*Space Invaders* was credited with helping to establish the video game industry, which by now included home consoles, arcade games, and burgeoning video game developers.

Source: Golden Age of Arcade Games

1990s: Revivals and Modern Remakes

In the 1990s, *Space Invaders* was revisited by developers through various re-releases, ports, and updates for newer gaming systems like the Game Boy, PlayStation, and Sega Saturn.

Source: Space Invaders Remakes

2000s: Mobile and Digital Revival

The game received a boost in the mobile era, with *Space Invaders* being re-released on iOS and Android platforms. The mobile versions remained faithful to the original gameplay while updating graphics and controls for the touchscreen era.

Source: Space Invaders Mobile Release

2010: 32nd Anniversary and Continued Legacy

The game marked its 32nd anniversary with special commemorative editions and events. In 2010, the *Space Invaders* franchise had expanded into various genres, including puzzle games, and was still being adapted to new technologies.

Source: Space Invaders Legacy

2020s: Ongoing Influence and New Games

*Space Invaders* continues to have a presence in the gaming world with new remakes, collaborations, and appearances in pop culture. The *Space Invaders* franchise remains a staple in retro gaming, and its influence can still be seen in modern games that draw inspiration from its mechanics and style.

Source: Space Invaders in Pop Culture

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