Alien Crush Returns detailed ahead of release

Alien Crush Returns is hitting WiiWare tomorrow. Hudson was good enough to finally share specifics on the game today for those wanting to find out what they're getting for their 800 WiiPoints.

This revival of the classic 1988 PC Engine pinball title features six stages, playable in a story mode. At the end of each stage, a giant alien boss awaits.

Other modes of play include a 3 stage arcade mode where you play three stages in an attempt to get the high score, and a Wi-Fi Connection versus mode which allows you to play against domestic and international players in four player matches. Those who want to compete the old fashioned way also have access to a ranking mode which displays the top 30 scores in all modes.

Hudson also says that the game will have a Wi-Fi download option. Extra Stages and balls are on the way, although it's unclear if these will be free or paid.

Don't shake too hard!

The Wii's waggle capabilities are put to use to help replicate the feel of playing a real pinball game. By shaking the nunchuck and and Wiimote in various ways, you can make the table shake and move. Of course, too much shake will make the machine go TILT, so you'll have to use this sparingly.

Other controls are button-based. The Z and B buttons control, respectively, the left and right flippers. To launch a ball onto the play field, you press down on either the D-pad or analogue pad.

For lefties, the game includes a left-handed mode which reverses the controls.

Those wanting somewhat of a preview ahead of tomorrow's release can check out the Virtual Console right now, where the original Alien Crush is available for 600 WiiPoints.