Developed by: SPC Vision (it was before SPC Vision set up their games division ‘The Vision Factory’ )
Published by: Philips Interactive Media Benelux
Original release: 1993
Genre: 2D vertical shooter
CD-i type: Compact Disc Interactive, base-case standard CD-i disc, no DVC required
Catalogue: 8100049 (Europe), 310690271-2 (USA)
Releases: Originally released in a ‘large vertical’ CD-i case, in 1994 re-released in normal jewelcase (The USA version included a carton slipcase)
Language: English only, the boxart of the European version is multi-language. The game is english only.
Emulator: Not working in CD-i Emulator v0.53b5, (game starts but boots to player shell after starting a new game.) Sounds work OK.
Description from the developer:
A terrifying evil is threatening the safety of your planet. Hordes of monsters are advancng through the Alien Gate with one objective in mind, the destruction of your world! Only you can ward off this danger. As a rocket fighter pilot, your coolheadeness will be tested to the utmost. The last battle has begun…
Game Facts:
Alien Gate was SPC Visions introductory title to what would become a stream of visually brilliant and critically acclaimed CD-i games. The fact your ship had hands and feet didn’t seem to worry the buying public as this game was an instant commercial hit with CD-i users. Watch the rolling text at the bottom of the screen and you’d see a hidden announcement of the spiritual sequel to Alien Gate in Steel Machine.
Tips / Cheat Codes
Level selection:
Level 05 -> CWOA
Level 10 -> ASJA
Level 15 -> VZOA
Level 20 -> SAKA
Level 25 -> TNNB
Review
A simple, slow-paced shooter that was a unique experience on CD-i. Colorful, with short levels. Quote of critics: “There were just too many quirky, un-conventional aspects employed in this game, as well as the CDi in general, to make it recommendable” There are 25 ‘ waves’ and the first ones are very easy. After around wave 7 it gets more difficult. The sheer size of your ship makes it difficult to dodge anything. In 1993, it didn’t have any competition on CD-i, perhaps only by Mystic Midway: Rest in Pieces, which got higher scores than this one. Alien Gate was also very expensive (120 NLG), while the game itself is pretty short.
From the Disc
Most CD-i Games have “Abstract”, “Bibliographic” and “Copyright” details on the softwares disc itself, any interesting information in these files can be found below.
Abstract: ALIEN GATE 2.09: An unspeakable evil has managed to break the defenses of your planet and has opened an Alien Gate through which hordes of monsters come that want to destroy life on your otherwise peaceful planet. Your mission: stop them. Battle 25 different levels of monsters and confront the final abomination to save your world.
Bibliographic: Alien Gate
Designed and programmed by Tim Moss and Stefan Posthuma
Graphics design and implementation by Niklas Malmqvist
Music and sound effects by Total Music Design
Produced by Franc Beernink and Rob Hormann
A 1992 SPC Vision production in cooperation with Philips Interactive Media inc.
Copyright: Copyright Philips Interactive Media International Limited 1993
