Defender

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

Mixed or average reviews - based on 24 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 12 out of 24
  2. Mixed: 12 out of 24
  3. Negative: 0 out of 24
Buy Now
Buy on
  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. Absolute Playstation
    82
    About the only downside to Defender is the games overall length…it is rather short and can probably be finished in one or two sittings by veteran players.
  3. PSM Magazine
    80
    Solid campaign modes, gameplay variety, and visuals make this a must-buy. [Dec 2002, p.42]
    All this publication's reviews
  5. 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.
  6. Media and Games Online Network
    80
    Fans of Defender will definitely enjoy this game, but the longevity may disappoint many if you were looking for a long experience.
  7. GameZone
    80
    While not very deep, Defender is an action packed game that any shooter fan should enjoy.
  8. 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.
  9. GamePro
    80
    Slick controls make piloting your craft as natural as breathing, and performing barrel rolls, loops and toggling through your weapon inventories become pure reflex.
  10. GameCritics
    80
    The game controls nice and tight—a necessary element for successful fast action. Every button on the Dual Shock 2 is used, but it’s an extremely comfortable and intuitive layout.
  11. Game Informer
    78
    Defender's real strength comes through in its willingness to be a shooter in a market full of mediocre hybrids. [Nov 2002, p.126]
    All this publication's reviews
  12. GamingWorld X
    76
    If you are a fan, you won't be disappointed, though we should note that the game doesn't last very long, and gives you little incentive to return after finishing.
  13. IGN
    75
    It's pretty short, but it's also a fast, mostly mindless shooter, with a hint of some RTS elements thrown in, just to mix things up.

Awards & Rankings

93
#93 Best PS2 Game of 2002

User Reviews

All reviews »
User Score
7.6

Generally favorable reviews- based on 8 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 3 out of 8
  2. Mixed: 5 out of 8
  3. Negative: 0 out of 8
  1. 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.… Full Review »
  2. LarryK.
    Dec 31, 2002
    9
    Actually kind of hard...I'm still stuck on the first levels!
  3. 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?… Full Review »
See all user reviews »