Defender

 PlayStation 2
  • Publisher: Midway
  • Release Date: Oct 22, 2002
Defender Image
Metascore
73

Mixed or average reviews - based on 24 Critic Reviews What's this?

User Score
7.6

Generally favorable reviews- based on 8 Ratings

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  • Summary: Relive the excitement of the ultimate action videogame with the all-new next-generation remake of Defender. Developed by 7 Studios, this all-new 3D Defender -- based on the timeless arcade classic -- offers players space-combat action as they fight to defend their solar system and save theRelive the excitement of the ultimate action videogame with the all-new next-generation remake of Defender. Developed by 7 Studios, this all-new 3D Defender -- based on the timeless arcade classic -- offers players space-combat action as they fight to defend their solar system and save the human race from alien invasion. In addition to fast and furious space-combat action, Defender will showcase elements of strategy, multiple types of humans to protect and use, ground units for players to defend and strategically position, and bases to build and expand. Players will also be able to take flight in new Defender ships with the ability to upgrade with special weapons, shields and other technologies as they take on the aliens who've invaded their universe. [Midway]… Expand
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Critic Reviews

Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 12 out of 24
  2. Mixed: 12 out of 24
  3. Negative: 0 out of 24
  1. Gamer's Pulse
    84
    The revamped gameplay manages to stay fresh, but is still able to keep that special something that made the original game so engrossing.
  2. G4 TV
    80
    It's a real treat to see footage of the original arcade Defender and listen to the thoughts of the man behind it and of the folks responsible for the new one.
  3. TotalGames.net
    80
    Like "Spy Hunter" before it Defender is a remarkable update that both satisfies old and new gamers alike with its flash graphics and basic old-skool blasting.
  4. Games Radar
    72
    A decently solid shooter that's good for a few hours fun. Shame they couldn't include the original as a bonus, though. [GamesMaster]
  5. Yahoo!
    70
    It doesn't really share too much with the original arcade title.
  6. GameSpot
    69
    It doesn't really go too far out of its way to distinguish itself.
  7. Eurogamer
    60
    It’s doesn’t have the adrenaline fuelled action of the original, nor any neat new ideas to make it feel like a progression.

See all 24 Critic Reviews

User Reviews

Write a Review
Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 2 out of 4
  2. Mixed: 2 out of 4
  3. Negative: 0 out of 4
  1. LuisA.
    Oct 28, 2002
    10
    I think that this game should be in the top ten in the US because it's the best space game aside from Staarlancer (created by dreamcast).
  2. LarryK.
    Dec 31, 2002
    9
    Actually kind of hard...I'm still stuck on the first levels!
  4. MitchellC.
    Dec 7, 2002
    7
    Luis is an idiot. This game is most definately not a 10 out of 10. Jedi Starfighter is better in playability and the controls for rolling and Luis is an idiot. This game is most definately not a 10 out of 10. Jedi Starfighter is better in playability and the controls for rolling and maneuvering are better. Does he work for Midway or something?… Expand
  5. Yojimbo2015
    Jul 28, 2023
    7
    The classic arcade game gets the 3D treatment in an update that still shares much of the original's blasting formula with a small addedThe classic arcade game gets the 3D treatment in an update that still shares much of the original's blasting formula with a small added element of strategy thrown in. I still prefer the no frills blasting of the original game but it's a worthy attempt at doing something different with the idea.… Expand

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Awards & Rankings

93
#93 Best PS2 Game of 2002