Aliens, Plasma Guns & Chewing Gum

About

Aliens, Plasma Guns & Chewing Gum is a fast-paced arcade shooter built for the Atari 2600. You control a squad of soldiers armed with futuristic weapons and a weird obsession with neon-green gum that somehow helps in combat. The gameplay leans into chaotic run-and-gun action, with waves of alien invaders descending on cities. Controls are simple but twitchy, emphasizing quick reflexes over strategy. The retro pixel art and synth soundtrack lean into the 80s arcade vibe, while the absurd premise keeps things light. What sticks out is the game’s willingness to lean into its ridiculous premise without apology. The chewing gum mechanic adds a quirky twist to combat, letting you slow enemies or create temporary barriers. Early reviews highlight its addictive difficulty curve and the novelty of playing a sci-fi shooter on a vintage platform. With a runtime of around three hours, it’s a short but punchy experience that feels like a lost classic. The Atari 2600’s limitations actually enhance the urgency, making every shot and jump feel urgent.