Alien Dropout

About

Alien Dropout is a 1982 arcade shooter where players defend against waves of descending killer moths. The screen features a central indestructible moth flanked by columns that fill with smaller enemies. When a column is full, its moths drop toward the player’s laser gun. Shooting them before they reach you is the goal. After destroying 200 small moths, the central target becomes vulnerable, offering a chance to progress to tougher levels. Six skill levels let players adjust difficulty. This game stands out for its straightforward but tense wave-based combat. The BBC Micro and Acorn Electron versions capture early 80s arcade simplicity, with no frills beyond raw action. Despite its age, the mechanics remain direct and punishing, relying on quick reflexes. Players who favor no-nonsense shoot ’em ups might appreciate its minimalist design. The December 1982 release date makes it a relic, but the laser-gun chaos still hits.