Space Invaders invades Tokyo retail

Taito has been gearing up for the 30th anniversary of Space Invaders for a couple of years, taking advantage of the retro gaming trend to release everything from alarm clocks to UFO catcher merchandise. Now they’re going all-out, making the classic game a fashion item for the masses.

While merchandise is fun, it’s not the kind of celebration they’re looking for. Their more interesting collaborations are in the retail space, particularly with HMV Shibuya, Taito game centers, and Harajuku’s Laforet department store. The game centers have been in full Invader-mode and include free anniversary “games” (seen above) that measure how quickly you can push a button, thus gauging your firing speed. Kind of like the carnival’s strong-man game, but for geeks.

Photo via Impress

Until August 22nd, Laforet is welcoming our classic alien overlords with an entire Space Invaders theme, including custom products from a variety of brands offering shirts, dresses, neckties, earrings, and the like. Even Tirol and Kit Kat are in on the game with special edition chocolates.

For digital content, Taito has also created branded Space Invaders World War online games for Diesel, HMV Shibuya, and Laforet, allowing gamers all over the world to compete on national levels. You can play each one by clicking below or, if you’re in Japan, scan the QR codes above to play the classic version on your phone. There are also special Space Invaders audio tracks and phone wallpaper available as free downloads.

Of course, the point of all this isn’t to promote a 30-year-old video game, but Taito itself. Amidst a retro trend, these are ideal conditions to give new life to a classic game. The older set can reflect on their teenage days, and the young ones can take a break from their PS3s to remember where it all came from.