Phase 1: Assembly Fundamentals Through Game Development

Phase 1 introduces you to 6502 assembly programming through creating 16 complete games. Each game teaches one core programming concept while building a playable, engaging experience. By the end of Phase 1, you’ll have mastered fundamental assembly programming and created a portfolio of finished C64 games.

Learning Philosophy: One Concept, One Game

Each game in Phase 1 focuses on a single core programming concept:

1. Pixel Patrol - Grid-based movement and sprite positioning
2. Dot Gather - Collision detection and object collection
3. Meteor Dodge - Animation and object movement
4. Beat Box - Sound generation and rhythm
5. Orb Launcher - Projectile physics and trajectories
6. Color Code - Color manipulation and puzzles
7. Gravity Well - Physics simulation and forces
8. Energy Grid - Resource management and routing
9. Ghost Chase - Simple AI and pursuit
10. Shape Shift - Sprite transformation and morphing
11. Zone Defense - Territory control and strategy
12. Chain Spark - Combo mechanics and chain reactions
13. Sprite Maze - Navigation and pathfinding
14. Shield Zone - Defense mechanics and barriers
15. Velocity Run - Speed and momentum
16. Sprite Symphony - Advanced sprite techniques

Why 16 Games?

Focused Learning: Each game concentrates on one concept, preventing overwhelming complexity while ensuring mastery.

Immediate Application: Every assembly instruction you learn serves a purpose in your current game project.

Portfolio Building: Graduate with 16 complete games showcasing different skills and techniques.

Genre Diversity: Experience various game types, from action to puzzles to simulations.

Progressive Complexity: Start with simple concepts and build to advanced techniques.

C64-Specific Advantages

Hardware Sprites: Learn to control the VIC-II chip’s 8 hardware sprites for smooth, efficient graphics.

SID Sound: Master the legendary SID chip for music and sound effects that defined 1980s gaming.

Memory Optimization: Work within the C64’s 64KB RAM to create efficient, fast-running games.

Raster Effects: Control the VIC-II at the raster level for advanced visual effects.

Authentic Experience: Use the same techniques and constraints that created classic C64 games.

Game Development Structure

Each game follows the same learning pattern over 32 lessons:

Foundation (Lessons 1-8)

• Set up the game structure and memory layout
• Create basic graphics and sprite definitions
• Implement core mechanics and controls
• Add user input handling via joystick/keyboard

Enhancement (Lessons 9-16)

• Add visual polish and sprite animations
• Implement game state management
• Create scoring and progression systems
• Add collision detection and physics

Polish (Lessons 17-24)

• Integrate SID sound effects and music
• Optimize performance for smooth gameplay
• Add advanced visual effects
• Create menus and user interface

Mastery (Lessons 25-32)

• Professional-quality polish and refinement
• Advanced optimization techniques
• Special effects and easter eggs
• Complete game packaging and testing

Technical Skills Covered

Assembly Programming: Complete 6502 instruction set, addressing modes, and programming techniques.

VIC-II Graphics: Sprite control, character mode, bitmap mode, multicolor sprites, raster interrupts.

SID Audio: Waveform generation, filters, ADSR envelopes, music composition, sound effects.

Memory Management: Zero page optimization, sprite data organization, efficient data structures.

Game Architecture: Main loops, state machines, object management, collision detection systems.

Optimization: Cycle counting, memory usage optimization, performance profiling.

Platform-Specific Features

Sprite Multiplexing: Display more than 8 sprites using raster interrupts.

Character Set Graphics: Create custom character sets for backgrounds and UI.

Smooth Scrolling: Implement hardware-assisted scrolling for larger game worlds.

Multicolor Modes: Use the C64’s multicolor capabilities for detailed graphics.

Raster Bars: Create dynamic color effects using precise raster timing.

Learning Outcomes

By completing Phase 1, you will:

• Write fluent 6502 assembly code for the C64
• Create complete games from concept to completion
• Master VIC-II graphics and SID sound programming
• Build a portfolio of 16 finished games
• Understand professional C64 development techniques
• Be prepared for advanced topics in Phase 2

Assessment

Progress is measured through:

• Completion of each game (playable and engaging)
• Code quality, organization, and documentation
• Understanding of concepts demonstrated in code
• Creative enhancements and personal touches
• Technical proficiency growth across projects

Each game serves as both a learning exercise and a portfolio piece, demonstrating your growing mastery of C64 assembly programming and game development techniques that defined the golden age of 8-bit gaming.