Swarm is a shmup--a 2D space combat game--but a bit more than that as well. Your main task is mining a resource called EZT--which the "swarm" aliens are also attempting to do. They do more than get in the way, of course--they shoot back.
It's a level-based game; after you collect enough EZT, a gate opens to the next level. Naturally, as the game progresses, the aliens become more numerous and aggressive.
In and among the space debris, you'll find many power-ups, including, after level 20, the "star clubber," an awesome thingie that swings around and whacks enemies nearby--sort of a space morningstar, if you will.
The controls are very smooth--it's primarily a mouse-based game, and the controls are configurable. Graphics are good for what they are--it's a 2D sprite-based game. It's an older title (first published in 1998), but still a good one, for those who like games of this type.
The Developer Says
Swarm is simply a great game.
I helped write Swarm and have always had a soft spot in my heart for it. It has great arcade action, a smooth flying ship and lots of cool weapons.
It was written by Reflexive's first employees and owners, in my condo, in Irvine. Two of us sitting at desks in the kitchen, two in the living room, network cable hanging from the ceiling, a 56k modem shared by us all.
Originally published in 1998 it won numerous awards including 5 Stars from ZDNet and -more importantly- dozens of great reviews from customers.
Swarm received a game play update in 2002, getting better graphics (24 bit color) and smoother game play. And has continued to be one of my favorite games.
I truly recommend this game to anyone.
But if you are an old school arcade gamers, you just might find it eating a lot of your time :).
- Lars Brubaker
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