Xonix

The game you're describing, Xonix, is indeed a classic and a notable example of the puzzle-action genre that captivated many players, particularly in the late '80s and early '90s. The game is a part of a broader genre that includes the original Taito's Qix, and it has inspired many variations and clones on various platforms over the years.

The Gameplay of Xonix:

• The player controls a "point" or cursor that moves around the perimeter of a playfield.
• When the player traverses an area of the playfield and returns to the edge, the traversed area becomes "captured" and is filled in.
• The objective is to fill in a certain percentage of the playfield (typically around 75%) while avoiding enemies.
• The enemies include balls that bounce around the open areas following predictable paths and the "spider" that travels along the filled-in areas.
• The player must avoid contact with these enemies and also cannot cross their own trail before reaching the safety of the filled-in area; doing so results in losing a life.

Nostalgia and Difficulty:

• Xonix and games like it are often associated with a sense of nostalgia, particularly for those who experienced them in their original context, like a research institute's computer or a school's computer club.
• The difficulty of these games is a significant part of the appeal, offering a challenge that requires quick reflexes and strategic movement.
• The lack of options to adjust the game's speed in the original versions added to the challenge, making it a test of both skill and patience.

Impact and Legacy:

• Xonix and Qix have indeed spawned numerous clones and inspired many modern adaptations on different platforms, including mobile phones and modern PCs.
• These games can be seen as precursors to modern puzzle-action games, influencing how players interact with space and enemies in a confined environment.
• The simplicity of the concept — controlling a point and capturing territory — makes it a timeless gameplay mechanic that is easy to understand but difficult to master, keeping players engaged for decades.

For those looking to revisit the classic gameplay of Xonix or its relatives, there are many modern versions with updated graphics and controls that capture the spirit of the original while providing a more accessible experience for today's players.