Square Enix has confirmed that it will be bringing a pair of classic videogame updates to Europe this summer, with confirmation that both Arkanoid DS and Space Invaders Extreme are on the way.

Space Invaders Extreme

Space Invaders is made “extreme”, we are led to believe, by the addition of new graphics, sound and power-ups. However, likely one of its biggest attractions is its compatibility with the Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection.

SPACE INVADERS EXTREME features

• Futuristic, techno-inspired graphic design takes SPACE INVADERS to new heights
• Interactive, totally immersive sound scheme where sound effects are synchronised to match the beats of the music
• Wide range of amazing new power-ups
• Play a friend with Nintendo DS Wireless Play
• Challenge other players with Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection
• High-Score table supported by Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection
• Share the multiplayer fun from a single cart with DS Download Play

Arkanoid DS

Arkanoid DS, meanwhile, an update to the classic block-busting game of the 1986 original, offers 140 different levels to play through, while a Quest mode ensures that set rules for clearing each round add a trickier challenge to anyone who wants it. Points won in the game can be used to customise the game further, with new backgrounds, blocks and sound effects waiting to be unlocked.

ARKANOID DS features

• Over 140 levels to complete in Clear Mode, Quest mode adds extra challenge with different rules for each level
• Customize your game by exchanging points earned for new design features such as new backgrounds, Vaus vessels, blocks and sound effects
• Power-up items carefully selected from the ARKANOID series plus exciting new Power-up items: Barriers, Warp and Vanish
• Compete against friends with 2 and 4-player DS Wireless Communications
• Share the multiplayer fun from a single cart with DS Download Play
• High-Score table supported by Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection
• Optional Paddle Controller gives analogue control just like the coin-op

John Yamamoto, president and chief executive officer of Square Enix Ltd. comments, “Both ARKANOID and SPACE INVADERS transcend different generations and gaming abilities, they are as loved for the gameplay experience as they are for their iconic status. With the launch of SPACE INVADERS EXTREME and ARKANOID DS we can offer existing fans the chance to enjoy the next level of gameplay, while offering a new audience the chance to experience these classics in a contemporary way.”

While both are planned for Europe this summer, Space Invaders Extreme and Arkanoid DS are currently scheduled to launch in North America on June 10 and June 17 respectively.