“PrintCade: Invaders” is a physical interface for the classic arcade game, “Space Invaders”. Built with recycled components such as printers, computer fans, joysticks with arcade buttons, and LED light arrays, the installation creates a physical connection between players and the virtual game system by generating analog sounds created by recycled electronic components acting as outputs. Players blast aliens projected on the wall above the piece while simultaneously creating physical feedback through the control interface that mimics the original 1980s arcade aesthetic. The end result is an aesthetically rich journey into the world of analog interfaces and virtual classic game output.

“PrintCade: Invaders” is a physical interface for the classic arcade game, “Space Invaders”. Built with recycled components such as printers, computer fans, joysticks with arcade buttons, and LED light arrays, the installation creates a physical connection between players and the virtual game system by generating analog sounds created by recycled electronic components acting as outputs. Players blast aliens projected on the wall above the piece while simultaneously creating physical feedback through the control interface that mimics the original 1980s arcade aesthetic. The end result is an aesthetically rich journey into the world of analog interfaces and virtual classic game output.

The original version of the piece was built over a three day hackathon in Berlin in 2014. It has since been updated and remade into a more consistent interface with a live arcade game that is playable through the main interface. The project uses recycled printer parts, arcade game controls, and custom software to create an engaging interactive experience.

The project is a 4 feet by 2 feet interface board, sitting on top of a 3 foot tall easel. There is a large projection screen and projector that projects the game in a dimly lit space. The projector should be at least 15 feet from the screen for optimal size. The project has a Bluetooth speaker for audio and runs on an Apple Mac Mini Computer.