Defender box art
Out now · Mon 21 Oct

Defender

UK release dateMonday, 21 October 2002Out 8747 days ago
Platforms
Xbox · Xbox 360
Genre
Shooter, Arcade
Modes
Single player
Online mode
No · Single-player only

What it is

Defender is an updated version of the classic arcade game of the same name. The Manti bugs have invaded earth and the remaining human survivors now live in colonies throughout the solar system. As more swarms of Manti arrive, even the colonies are now in danger of being wiped out. You've been enlisted to help save the remaining colonists and destroy the Manti bugs! There are a total of six different ships to fly, each with its own flight characteristics and special weapons. Weapon and shield power-ups can also be found throughout the various missions. As in the original version of Defender, the Manti will try to capture any humans they can find to change them into mutants to increase their attack force. To increase chances of success you will need to rescue captured humans before this happens and bring them to a safe landing zone. Saving colonists will also earn you some credits, which can later be used to buy improved weapons or shields for your ship. Also included are several video extras detailing the historical perspective of and the making of Defender.

The Swarm Wars have been raging for a while now. Earth has been invaded but, mankind has carved existence into the other colonies looking to help out with the conflict rookie Defender pilot Kyoto joins the Galactic Stargate Authority to protect mankind. But shortly after Kyoto finishes training, the Cydonia Base is attacked by the next swarm of Manti which has had the chance to fortify since the last event. The Manti push the GSA back to the far end of the Solar System, and begin to wipe the humans away forever. Kyoto will have to be dispatched on vital missions by the Battleship Memory, receive criticism from Colonel Adams, and learn more about the Manti from Dr. Mudo, to defeat the second alien swarm.

▶ Gameplay Video

Our coverage

Nothing written yet. Once we’ve played it the review, first-10-hours guide, unlockables and UK buying advice will collect here. Meanwhile the News section has this week’s launch notes.

Details

Developer
7 Studios
Publisher
Midway
Themes
Science fiction
Perspective
Third person
Listed date
Mar 14, 2003

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Dates, prices and artwork

UK release date and launch RRP as confirmed by the publisher. Store links may be affiliate links; they never change what we say about a game. Box art, screenshots, trailer and game facts via IGDB, refreshed 1 Oct.