Ebonstar cover art

Game dossier

Ebonstar

Available now

A 1988 European arcade shooter built around a black hole, energy bolts, and up to four competing ships.

The briefing

About this game

Ebonstar is an arcade shooter developed by The Dreamers Guild and published by MicroIllusions. Released in Europe in 1988, it places players on a single static grid dominated by a roaming black hole that swallows objects within its range.

Players control ships equipped with energy-bolt cannons. Shots can destroy the void and repel other ships, creating a competitive struggle in which up to four players can battle while attempting to push one another into the black hole. The circling Arch also launches drone ships, other aliens, and additional weapons that players can collect.

The game features smooth vector-style movement for the black hole and a notable explosion effect, alongside simple music, sound effects, and graphics.

Key Features

  • Arcade shooter gameplay on a static grid
  • A roaming black hole that threatens everything nearby
  • Energy bolts that damage the void and push rival ships
  • Support for up to four players
  • Drone ships, aliens, and collectible weapons launched from the Arch