Released by Konami in 1990, Aliens is a side-scrolling, run-and-gun arcade game loosely based on the 1986 film of the same name. Players control Ellen Ripley or Corporal Hicks (in 2-player co-op) as they fight through hordes of Xenomorphs on the planet LV-426.

Gameplay Mechanics

• Run-and-Gun Action: Players move through linear stages shooting aliens, with the ability to shoot while standing or crouching.
• Weapons: Players start with a “Smart Gun” and can collect power-ups for flamethrowers, grenade launchers, and laser weapons.
• Third-Person Sections: Some levels switch to a behind-the-back, rail-shooter perspective.
• No Jumping: The game lacks a jump button, relying on ladders for vertical movement.
• Boss Battles: Each of the six levels ends with a boss fight, featuring unique, non-movie aliens (e.g., flying or electric aliens) and, ultimately, the Alien Queen.
• Power Loader: In the final fight, players use a Power Loader exoskeleton to battle the Queen.