Alien 3, released in 1992 for various platforms, is a run-and-gun action game loosely based on the sci-fi horror film of the same name. While the movie focused on tension and survival, the game takes a more action-oriented approach. Players take on the role of Ellen Ripley as she navigates the dark and claustrophobic corridors of the Fiorina 161 prison colony, where deadly Xenomorphs have overrun the facility. The objective is to rescue imprisoned survivors before time runs out, all while fending off relentless alien attacks.

The gameplay is fast-paced and emphasizes exploration and combat. Each level is a maze-like network of corridors, air ducts, and chambers where players must locate hostages, retrieve key items, and reach the exit before the timer expires. Ripley is armed with a variety of weapons, including pulse rifles, flamethrowers, and grenades, which are essential for dealing with the hordes of Xenomorphs that stalk the prison. Ammunition is limited, forcing players to carefully manage resources while also navigating complex level layouts filled with hazards and hidden paths.

Visually, Alien 3 captures the oppressive atmosphere of the film with dark, industrial environments and detailed sprite work that conveys a sense of isolation and danger. The aliens are well-animated and attack with speed and unpredictability, adding to the tension. The music and sound effects enhance the feeling of dread, with eerie ambient tracks and sudden alien screeches that keep players on edge. The game avoids relying on cinematic cutscenes, instead using its gameplay and design to immerse players in the nightmare setting.

While Alien 3 doesn’t follow the movie’s plot closely, it was praised for its challenging gameplay, tight controls, and faithful representation of the Alien universe’s aesthetic. However, its difficulty level and strict time limits could be frustrating for some players. Despite these challenges, it became a memorable title for fans of action-platformers and the Alien franchise, standing out as one of the better film-to-game adaptations of the early ’90s.

• Developer: Probe Software
• Publisher: Acclaim Entertainment / Virgin Interactive (depending on platform)
• Release Year: 1992
• Platform(s): Sega Genesis/Mega Drive, SNES, Game Boy, Amiga, and others
• Genre: Run-and-gun action platformer
• Game Mode: Single-player
• Graphics: Dark, detailed 2D environments with atmospheric design
• Sound: Haunting music with tense sound effects
• Key Feature: Timed hostage rescues combined with fast-paced combat against Xenomorphs