Aliens

“Aliens” by Konami is a classic arcade run-and-gun shooter released in 1990, inspired by the blockbuster sci-fi film of the same name directed by James Cameron. In this cooperative multiplayer game, players assume the roles of Colonial Marines as they battle through hordes of xenomorphs and other extraterrestrial threats. Known for its intense action, atmospheric graphics, and cooperative gameplay, Aliens delivers an immersive experience that captures the essence of the iconic film franchise.

Konami developed Aliens during the peak of arcade gaming’s popularity, capitalizing on the success of the film released in 1986. The game’s development aimed to recreate the suspense and intensity of the Aliens movie, featuring iconic locations and memorable encounters with the deadly xenomorphs. Utilizing Konami’s expertise in arcade game design, the development team crafted a thrilling and visually impressive gaming experience that paid homage to the source material.

Upon its release, Aliens received positive reviews for its faithful adaptation of the film’s atmosphere, intense gameplay, and cooperative multiplayer feature. Players appreciated the detailed graphics, immersive sound design, and the strategic elements introduced by the cooperative play. The game’s reception solidified its status as a standout title in the run-and-gun shooter genre and as one of Konami’s successful arcade adaptations of popular film franchises.

Aliens primarily existed as an arcade game, and no direct home console ports were made. However, the success of the arcade version inspired Konami to develop and release a similar game for the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) titled “Contra Force.” While not a direct sequel, the Contra series, known for its cooperative multiplayer and run-and-gun gameplay, shares similarities with Aliens.

Original Aliens arcade cabinets by Konami are considered moderately rare, with the number of surviving units influencing their scarcity. As of 2023, well-maintained and operational cabinets can be found within the collector’s market. The value of an Aliens arcade cabinet varies based on factors such as condition, originality, and demand among collectors who appreciate its connection to the iconic Aliens franchise.

Aliens ran on Konami’s arcade hardware, featuring a custom graphics processing unit, Z80 microprocessor, and specialized sound hardware. For enthusiasts interested in repairing or maintaining an original Aliens arcade cabinet, relevant parts may include replacement buttons, joystick assemblies, power supplies, and common arcade circuitry components. The game’s hardware simplicity and Konami’s reputation for durable arcade cabinets make it a suitable restoration project for arcade enthusiasts. The specialized light gun controllers used in the game may require attention during repairs.

Arcade Video Game Price and Field Guide:

Aliens:
Dedicated Upright, Conversion Kit
Genre: Shooter, Run and Gun, Movie Tie-In

Lower – 475
Average – 625
Higher – 775