The Willis Space Invaders Deluxe replacement control panel overlay is a testament to what Willis could do when they put some good talent on a project. At approximately 25 inches wide and about 8 inches tall, that isn’t a lot of space to work with when compared to other overlays of the time. Now remove half of that space for die-cuts, graphics and instructions and you don’t have much room at all. The artist that worked on the overlay still managed to convey the idea of the game with detailed artwork for a screen print, loaded with depth and character. Giant mechanical birds with missiles gripped in their talons, moon defenses firing on the attackers, and layering to the planetary background all combine to make this one of the better overlays from Willis, and certainly in my top 5. With at least 6 colors, clean lines, die cuts and the standard use of 3M materials exemplify the quality being produced at Willis. An early overlay, marked as © Willis Ind. Inc. 1981, but with no part number and missing the “Willis men”. I would argue that this aftermarket overlay is better than the original and I would leave it on a game if I found it that way. While not impossible to find this overlay as NOS, they definately don’t show up often and not always in great condition. Be patient if you’re looking to add one to your collection.
From the original Tokens Only post…
Sadly no old posts about this overlay from back in the begining of my site.
As always, if you have a cabinet with this overlay installed, be proud and share some pictures. If you have any insight as to who might have been the artist on this piece, even better!
