This particular control panel overlay appears to have been produced around the same time as the deluxe version, both in 1981. There are some similarities in the text and background design, so its possible the same designer worked on both. While the Willis Space Invaders replacement control panel overlay has colors and features that relate it back to the game, such as the obvious triple stacked aliens, it isn’t as visually dynamic as the deluxe version. With text and graphics dominant on the overlay, used to explain the game play. It has the © WILLIS IND. INC. 1981 printed on the front, but missing any part number, and the “Willis men” don’t make an appearance. The left side of the overlay graphic is not centered correctly adn gives the overlay a skewed appearance. Odd lack of quality control from a company that produced such high quality products back in the golden age of arcades. I’ve counted 5 colors in the screen print, with die-cuts for the controls and hardware. I’m used to seeing 3M materials, but this one was slightly different.
From the original Tokens Only post…
I couldn’t find any old post data, so this must be the 1st post about the overlay.
I know Scotch and 3M became the same company at some point, it is just strange seeing the lighter paper backing as 99% of the overlays have the dark brown 3M paper. As far as replacement overlays go it’s not terrible and if my original metal control panel overlay was worn down it would be a suitable replacement. If you have one on your game please share, I’d love to see it!
