Space Fighter

One of the things that were apparently lost once technology evolved was the ability for players to enjoy games in split-screen mode. Granted, the option hasn’t disappeared altogether, but then again it’s difficult to render multiple instances of the game at the same time now that everything is so detailed. Thus, the gimmick only works for simpler titles that do not use realistic physics engines or state-of-the-art graphics.

Space Fighter is arcade shoot ‘em up in which you control a spaceship and try to bring an end to an alien mining operation. The main selling point of the game is the fact that you can play in split-screen with up to seven other friends, although you need a second display for more than four players. Thus, it should be a great way to re-live the good-old times of the arcade era.

To begin with, you have different ship classes to choose from, each one of which features different abilities. Hence, you can approach the battle with slightly more agile ships and move around the battlefield quickly, as well as resort to heavier crafts that deal a lot more damage once they reach their destination. You can also pick up a variety of bonuses along the way.

Besides the fact that the game supports up to eight players in split-screen, you can also enjoy up to forty AI-controlled spaceships, which should make the experience that much more exciting. Unfortunately, the AI is not that bright, given the fact that they sometimes forget all about the objective and even crash into the ground without warning. There are also two game modes to choose from, depending on whether you want to complete objectives or just fight to the death.

In terms of graphics, Space Fighter is nothing out of the ordinary, but it certainly looks nicer than you would expect from a free-to-play title. Thus, the environments are pretty restrained and basic, but the lighting effects and the laser blasts look convincing. The game runs pretty smoothly, even when the screen is split into four different areas.

Even if it lacks depth and the AI is a bit of a letdown, Space Fighter is fun enough to keep you and your friends entertained for a few hours every now and again. Thus, it’s always great to see the split-screen make a comeback.