It’s a tank game that has clear Space Invaders mechanics, but Strategy X can stand on its own as a genuine classic.
I love it when I find a classic arcade game I’ve never seen before that also looks superb, and Strategy X seems to fit the bill. In fact now I’m really wish it had been around when I was a kid.
Although launched in 1981, as far as I can recall, this Konami arcade title never made it to my local arcades. I don’t recall it from the mid-1980s, and I’ve no memory of it being around in the 1990s. So it’s a safe bet it never made it this far.
If it had, I think I would have spent a few 10p pieces on this one. And I’m very close to picking up this new edition, released as part of the record-breaking Arcade Archives series.
Here’s the synopsis:
“STRATEGY X” is a tank-based shooting game released by KONAMI in 1981.
Move the direction of artillery fire left and right to defeat enemies and replenish fuel while progressing through the stages.
Aim to destroy the “IMMORTALIAN” waiting at the deepest part.
Strategy X trailer
You can see the similarities with games like Galaxian and Space Invaders, although Strategy X also has a feel of Commando, albeit 4 years before that classic came out.
But I think Strategy X could be a classic in its own right, forgotten by a world distracted by Pac-man and Star Wars.
Have a look at this!
It looks great, doesn’t it? As an Arcade Archives release, this two-player title also enjoys custom difficulty level, display filters, save states, and access to an international leaderboard.
Out this week on PlayStation 4 and Nintendo Switch, you can learn more and grab the download links on the Arcade Archives’ Strategy X website.
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Christian Cawley is the founder and editor of GamingRetro.co.uk, a website dedicated to classic and retro gaming. With over 20 years of experience writing for technology and gaming publications, he brings considerable expertise and a lifelong passion for interactive entertainment, particularly games from the 8-bit and 16-bit eras.
Christian has written for leading outlets including TechRadar, Computer Weekly, Linux Format, and MakeUseOf, where he also served as Deputy Editor.
When he’s not exploring vintage consoles or retro PCs, Christian enjoys building with LEGO, playing cigar box guitar, and experimenting in the kitchen.
