Just about two decades ago, The Behemoth made its debut on the game scene with Alien Hominid HD. And since that time, it’s really found its footing with a handful of select releases that defined its hand-drawn art style and hardcore (yet enjoyable) gameplay.
Now we have Alien Hominid Invasion, the long-awaited follow-up that once again returns our head-chomping heroes to the spotlight. But instead of another usual side-scrolling endeavor, we have a set-up in a limited map, where certain objectives must be completed either on your own or with friends.
The new style takes a bit of getting used to, especially if you were a fan of the original game. But there’s a neat concept at play here, along with action that ramps up in just the right way and, surprise, multiplayer appeal.
The Invasion Is On!
Like before, Alien Hominid Invasion puts you in charge of aliens fighting against a growing element of human and robotic forces. You start out with a few key agents, but then the odds really start working against you, to the point that it’s insane. But it’s the kind of difficulty that ramps up pretty nicely, even though the odds can definitely be against you in single player.
Fortunately, the game’s multiplayer component is excellent, as you and three friends can team up to take on the elements together. You can work together to stay alive even longer and unlock some cool goodies, while at the same time having a ball shutting down “the man,” as it were. Again, it can get tough in a hurry, but with the right team, you’re sure to have a blast with it.
Gameplay works just fine here, and there’s a lot to offer both solo and multiplayer alike. That said, some variety in mission objectives would’ve been great. You often run into similar objectives once too often, and that might grow old for some.
Still, this is a neat idea for a follow-up, instead of just doing the same old side-scrolling shooter. Not that it’s a bad thing by any means, but innovation will definitely keep sessions going longer than expected here.
Once Again, Packed With Charming Presentation
Like the original Hominid, Invasion benefits from a hand-drawn art style that’s nothing short of wonderful. Even if the level design is somewhat limited compared to the original game, the maps are nice to look at, and the varying enemy creation is very cool. Of course, your aliens sparkle on the screen, and being able to unlock different types is always a good deal of fun. Plus, the game runs at a smooth clip, even during the most chaotic of multiplayer sessions.
The sound is also pretty entertaining, with fun little background tunes and a bevy of sound effects, similar to the nature of the original game. They don’t reinvent the wheel by any means, but they keep things going.
Overall, great presentation. I wouldn’t expect anything less from the lunatics at The Behemoth. (I mean that as a term of endearment.)
Alien Hominid HD, Too
In addition to Invasion, The Behemoth also released a port of Alien Hominid HD for consoles. And just like the original and Xbox 360 versions before it, it’s a charmer.
Now, the game is hard as nails, so be prepared for quite the fight. However, it’s a side scroller packed with great power-ups, challenging bosses, excellent gameplay and, of course, that Newgrounds style of humor. You’ll have a blast revisiting this one.
What’s more, you can get both the original Hominid alongside Invasion for a solid package price, like around $25 or so. Well worth it for both games.
They’ll Take Over Your Life – And Quite Well
Even though I would’ve preferred more traditional side-scrolling, Alien Hominid Invasion is a welcome sequel. The new multiplayer concept is very well done and gives you plenty to do, even with the limited mission types; and the presentation is as good as it’s ever been. If this is your first time jumping into the series, you’ll have a ball. And if you grew up with all things Newgrounds and Behemoth, this is definitely a must-add to your collection.
GAMERHUB RATING: 4 (out of 5) JOYSTICKS
(Thanks to The Behemoth for the game codes!)
