SPACE INVADERS: World Defense is an immersive mobile game that combines augmented reality and 3D gameplay to turn the world into a digital playground. It’s an exciting evolution of the classic franchise on a new platform, blending retro 8-bit visuals with modern technology. Powered by Google’s ARCore and Geospatial API, it’s inspired by the original gameplay - but this time players must defend their local neighbourhoods from SPACE INVADERS in AR.
‍

‍

Google’s Geospatial API allows digital content to be anchored in the real world with sub-metre accuracy, using an individual’s physical surroundings. It works in conjunction with geometric data tied to Google Maps Street View, resulting in an interactive AR gaming experience connected to the physical world on a global scale. In addition, the game leverages the newly released Streetscape Geometry API, which provides the geometry of terrain, buildings, and other structures within a 100m radius of the user’s current location so that SPACE INVADERS can emerge from all around.
‍

‍

SPACE INVADERS: World Defense allows players to activate two different play modes. By switching from World Dimension to Invaders Dimension, players can access a pure digital 3D level, transitioning from the real world via a portal. This parallel digital environment is dynamically generated based on their real world surroundings, allowing players to complete missions in a fully digital world that serves as a virtual replica of their own.
‍

‍

We also used OpenWeather API to design levels based on a player’s current conditions, including time of day, temperature, and weather. The result was a fun, fully contextual and tailored spatial experience.

‍

‍

‍