Distant Space is a premium arcade game for PC developed by PixelMouse. It's a third-person top-down shooter with a sci-fi theme set in space. In it, players will control a spaceship and face and defeat multiple waves of highly agile enemies.

Similar to the other games, including Space Invaders or Retro Invaders, Distant Space takes cues from classic space shooters from the 1980s for its design and gameplay. It combines pixel graphics with a minimalistic art style to offer an experience as close as possible to its original inspiration, with modern gameplay elements.

Classic space shooting

Space Invaders is a classic in the sci-fi sub-genre that helped popularize space shooters way back then. It features simple graphics and easy-to-learn mechanics, but the gameplay is deceptively simple. Its popularity and appeal have endured through the decades, inspiring modern releases that are trying to offer the same experience it had, and Distant Space is one of those games it inspired.

On the surface, this game looks and feels like the classic title it's trying to emulate. There are 26 levels to face and countless waves of ships and large bosses to defeat in each of them. The pacing makes it stand out, as the gameplay is faster and more frenetic than usual. Enemies are spritely and move in specific patterns you must figure out to defeat them.

In this arcade game, you have health and shield counters to help with survivability and an upgradable weapon that lets you shoot more projectiles to hit more enemies. Everything is complemented by retro sounds and music for a more authentic experience. One area where the game could improve is level design, particularly with legibility and the difficulty of seeing enemies. Additionally, the core mechanics can be repetitive over time.

An indirect sequel of this game

Distant Space 2 is an action-packed, arcade-style indirect continuation of the original Distant Space. It expands on its predecessor's fast-paced, space-shooter formula with 26 new levels and three unique boss battles, adding an extra layer of challenges. This sequel is noted for its increased dynamism compared to the first game, providing a more intense and fast-moving experience. Compared to its predecessor, this sequel features enhanced graphics with more refined pixel art and smoother animations, giving the game a visually sharper and more immersive experience while maintaining its retro charm.

One design element flaw

Distant Space is a retro-inspired arcade shooter. It blends 1980s space shooter elements with modern gameplay. Players navigate a spaceship through 26 levels, battling waves of agile enemies and tough bosses. With pixel graphics and a minimalistic style, it delivers a nostalgic experience while adding upgradable weapons and shields. Though fun and fast-paced, the game can become repetitive, and level design could be improved for better visibility and variety.