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Game Overview
Alien Swarm is a foundational fixed shooter. Alien ranks march horizontally, dropping a row each edge contact. You must thin dangerous columns, manage firing rhythm, and delay their descent long enough to clear the wave.
Controls
- Left / Right Arrows or A / D: Slide your cannon.
- Space / Tap: Fire shot (often single on screen until it exits or hits).
- Enter: Start / restart.
Strategy & Tactics
1. Column Prioritization
Eliminate edge columns to increase horizontal travel distance, buying extra firing cycles before descent.
2. Shot Efficiency
Because only one bolt may be active (classic rule), fire the moment the prior shot leaves the top to sustain maximum DPS.
3. Gap Sculpting
Create vertical lanes by clearing aligned aliens allowing uninterrupted shots at higher rows.
4. Speed Curve Adaptation
Fewer aliens means faster movement; anticipate acceleration and pre-position on the alien travel path.
5. Risk Management
Avoid chasing final aliens under low ceiling; set intercept points instead of reactive slides.
Common Mistakes
- Center Tunnel: Ignoring flanks accelerates descent.
- Late Firing: Delays compounding into lost cycles.
- Panic Sliding: Over-correcting; stay deliberate.
- Ignoring Speed Shift: Not adjusting timing as count drops.
Alien Swarm FAQ
Why do aliens speed up?
With fewer sprites, update loop cycles faster creating acceleration effect.
Is there an end?
Classic mode loops with increasing tempo; survival and score are the goals.
Best opening move?
Target an outer column to extend horizontal travel time.
How to handle last alien?
Predict its reversal; fire where it will be not where it is.
Any hidden bonuses?
Some versions feature bonus saucers; implement varies.