Although there are a few high profile RPGs in development for the Apple II, and some relatively recent releases of a handful of quality action games, there really hasn’t been a new, high quality arcade shooter available for quite some time. Now, with Alien Downpour getting close to release and already available for pre-order, that’s going to change.

While you can visit the official Website, the game’s author, Michael Packard, has been posting regular updates, including videos of the final levels, on Facebook, via the Apple Graphics and Arcade Game Design Enthusiasts Public Group.

Although I admit I wasn’t terribly impressed with the game’s early development, I’ve since become a believer. The level and enemy variety, as well as increased smoothness of play, have definitely won me over. The game is available on 5.25 disk ($20), cassette ($20), or a combo package ($25) from the official Website.