Alien 911 is an action-tower-defense RPG developed by Stepico where players protect friendly alien planets from the onslaught of hostile alien bullies that roam the universe. What sets Alien 911 apart from other games in the genre is the unique alien environments and species, a unique blueprint-based crafting system that allows each player to truly customize their gameplay, and a variety of player roles, traps, robots, and weapons that offer distinctive tactics.
Game Concept
In Alien 911, players take on the role of protectors, fighting off waves of enemies using weapons, robots, towers, and traps. The game combines elements of action, strategy, and RPG mechanics to create a dynamic and engaging experience.
Key Features
- Genre: Action-Tower Defense-RPG
- Modes: Solo or co-op (up to 4 players)
- Customization: Unique blueprint-based crafting system
- Player Roles: Different classes with specialized abilities
- Combat Mechanics: A blend of direct combat and strategic prop placement
- Target Platforms: PC (Steam), optimized for both mid-range and high-end setups
Gameplay Mechanics
Core Loop
- Build Phase: Players strategically place defensive structures before enemy waves arrive.
- Combat Phase: Players engage in direct combat and manage their defenses against enemy attacks.
- Wave Completion: Players earn gold, upgrade defenses, and prepare for the next wave.
- Level Progression: Successfully defending a level unlocks the next mission.
Player Classes
- Soldier: Melee fighter with high durability.
- Chemist: Alters enemy behavior with potions and spells.
- Medic: Supports teammates with healing abilities.
- Engineer: Builds and repairs defenses.
- Demolitions Expert: Specializes in explosive area-of-effect attacks.
- Marksman: Long-range precision shooter.
Enemy AI
Enemies come in different types, each with unique behavior:
- Melee Enemies: Focus on attacking friendlies.
- Ranged Enemies: Target players and props from a distance.
- Tank Enemies: Prioritize attacking players and structures.
- Healer Enemies: Support their allies with healing abilities.
- Suicide Bombers: Target defensive props with explosive attacks.
Progression System
Players earn gold and experience points by defeating enemies. Gold is used to build and upgrade props, while experience points allow players to improve their attributes, such as:
- Health: Increases max health and regeneration rate.
- Energy: Enhances max energy and regeneration speed.
- Speed: Boosts movement and casting speed.
Rewards for level completion include star ratings based on the number of surviving friendly aliens, as well as blueprints for crafting new props and components.
Crafting and Resource Management
The game introduces a detailed crafting system where players can:
- Use blueprints to create known props and components.
- Experiment with materials to discover new crafting recipes.
- Manage inventory by upgrading, selling, or recycling props.
There are four main resource types:
- Base Materials: Purchased from the in-game store.
- Components: Crafted from base materials.
- Props: Battle-ready items created from components and materials.
- Blueprints: Permanent recipes for crafting new items.
Development Timeline & Milestones
Alien 911 followed a structured development plan, progressing through key milestones:
- Phase 1: Playable level prototype with core mechanics.
- Phase 2: Production-level gameplay and graphics optimization.
- Phase 3: Full vertical slice including crafting and UI enhancements.
- Phase 4: Steam Early Access launch.
- Phase 5: Complete content development with all levels.
- Phase 6: Full game launch with final polish and balance adjustments.
Conclusion
Alien 911 successfully combines action, strategy, and RPG elements into an engaging co-op experience. With a unique crafting system, diverse enemy behaviors, and tactical gameplay, the game offers players an exciting challenge. Its development milestones showcase a well-planned journey from concept to final release, making it a standout title in the action-tower defense genre.
