Tier 1: Cursor Quest - Character Movement and Attribute Effects

Welcome to your first ZX Spectrum game development project! Cursor Quest introduces you to Z80 assembly programming through creating a complete character movement game with attribute-based trail effects. Learn the Spectrum’s unique text-based graphics system and color management.

What You’ll Build

Cursor Quest - A complete character movement game featuring:

• Character-based cursor (@) that moves through text positions
• Attribute-based trail effects showing movement history
• Target letter collection system with scoring
• Keyboard input handling (QAOP keys)
• Beeper sound effects
• Professional game loop architecture

Game Concept

Navigate a cursor character through a field of text, leaving a colored trail using the Spectrum’s attribute system. Find and collect specific letter targets while learning the fundamental concepts of Z80 assembly programming and Spectrum game development.

Learning Journey (32 Lessons)

Foundation (Lessons 1-8)

• Lesson 1: Spectrum setup and screen memory basics
• Lesson 2: Display characters at specific positions
• Lesson 3: Calculate screen addresses and positioning
• Lesson 4: Read keyboard input via matrix scanning
• Lesson 5: Implement cursor movement logic
• Lesson 6: Move cursor character on screen
• Lesson 7: Add boundary checking and constraints
• Lesson 8: Create basic game loop structure

Attribute Effects (Lessons 9-16)

• Lesson 9: Understanding attribute memory system
• Lesson 10: Set up trail effect framework
• Lesson 11: Draw colored trail behind cursor
• Lesson 12: Create fading trail effects
• Lesson 13: Add target letter system
• Lesson 14: Implement collision detection
• Lesson 15: Create scoring system
• Lesson 16: Add level progression

Visual Polish (Lessons 17-24)

• Lesson 17: Add border effects using port 254
• Lesson 18: Create character animation cycles
• Lesson 19: Generate maze layouts with walls
• Lesson 20: Add special color zones
• Lesson 21: Create particle-like character effects
• Lesson 22: Design status display
• Lesson 23: Create title screen
• Lesson 24: Add transition effects

Audio and Completion (Lessons 25-32)

• Lesson 25: Beeper basics and tone generation
• Lesson 26: Create movement sound effects
• Lesson 27: Add beeper music
• Lesson 28: Implement difficulty settings
• Lesson 29: Create high score entry system
• Lesson 30: Add power-up system
• Lesson 31: Final polish and optimization
• Lesson 32: Create loading screen

Core Skills Developed

Z80 Assembly Programming: Learn fundamental assembly concepts through practical application.

Character-Based Graphics: Master the Spectrum’s unique text-mode display system.

Attribute System: Control the Spectrum’s color attribute memory for visual effects.

Keyboard Input: Handle the Spectrum’s keyboard matrix for responsive controls.

Memory Management: Efficient use of screen and attribute memory areas.

Audio Programming: Generate sound effects using the beeper system.

Why Character Movement?

Character movement is the perfect introduction to Spectrum programming because it teaches:

• Screen memory layout: Understanding the Spectrum’s unique display system
• Attribute control: Managing colors and visual effects
• Input handling: Responsive keyboard controls
• Memory efficiency: Working within the 48K constraint
• Visual effects: Creative use of the attribute system

Technical Highlights

• Character Graphics: Direct control of screen memory
• Attribute Effects: Creative use of INK/PAPER/BRIGHT/FLASH
• Keyboard Matrix: Hardware-level input reading
• Beeper Sound: Simple but effective audio generation
• Memory Layout: Efficient organization of game data
• Performance: Smooth gameplay within constraints

Spectrum-Specific Features

Attribute System: Learn to work with and around color clash.

Character Mode: Efficient 8×8 character-based graphics.

Keyboard Matrix: Direct hardware keyboard reading.

Beeper Sound: Simple but creative audio generation.

Memory Banking: Understanding 48K vs 128K models.

Project Outcomes

By completing Cursor Quest, you will have:

• Created your first complete Spectrum game
• Mastered fundamental Z80 assembly programming
• Learned character-based graphics and attribute control
• Built a reusable game architecture framework
• Developed professional game development skills
• Created a polished, playable game for your portfolio

This project establishes the foundation for all future Spectrum game development, teaching you the essential skills needed to create increasingly complex and impressive games throughout Phase 1.