I was recently lucky enough to get my hands on the upcoming ‘Space Invaders Extreme’ for Xbox LIVE Arcade to check out the multiplayer modes, some of which are original to this version. Co-op can be played with 2-4 players either locally or over Xbox LIVE, sharing a screen, score and pool of lives with everybody. Being able to progress through the levels and strategize with your friends adds a whole new level to the gameplay. By killing invading aliens of the same color (in groups of 4) players are able receive bonuses and if it is done back-to-back you will be warped to a special bonus stage, being able to rack up major points.

If battling it out against your friends is more your cup o’ tea you’ll be more than thrilled by the versus modes in ‘Space Invaders Extreme.’ Survivor is split-screen (when played locally) and, as you’d expect, the point is to stay alive the longest. To add to the fun you can send invaders to your enemy’s screen by taking out the bonus UFOs that fly across the screen all while adding more points to your tally. In Score Attack mode you’ll all share the same playing area and group of invaders while trying to accumulate the most kills and highest score. An interesing element comes in that if one of your opponents generates a power-up you can swoop in and try to take it to help you on your way to victory.

When playing the multiplayer, either co-op or versus, you’ll surely be amazed and entranced by the wonderful combination of audio and visual experience. ‘Space Invaders Extreme’ is sure to delight old fans and bring in some new ones. Be on the look out for more news as we get closer and closer to the ‘Space Invaders Extreme’ release on Xbox LIVE Arcade.