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Space Invaders using Python

Oct 29, 2014· 6 min· 33K views·Watch on YouTube

An unidentified creator from leerob presents a Python and Pygame clone of Space Invaders.

Recreating the core game

The creator aimed to reproduce the classic gameplay while adding visual changes and new features. The clone includes the ship, invaders, blockers, score, and lives.

Adjusting the enemy formation

The original game had five rows of 11 enemies. This version uses 10 enemies per row to fit the screen without making the formation feel crowded.

Changing the visual design

Enemies use different colors to indicate their point values, and the game uses a space image instead of a black background. The ship design is based on Galaga rather than the original game's ship.

Adding a score-based upgrade

Once the player scores more than 1,000 points, the ship gains dual lasers. The creator presents this as a gameplay upgrade before showing the finished version.

Takeaways

  • Tune the number of on-screen objects to fit the available display area.
  • Use color to communicate gameplay information such as enemy point values.
  • A familiar game can be refreshed with a new setting and visual design.
  • Tie an upgrade to a clear score milestone to reward player progress.

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