Jeff Minter
The llama-loving wizard of Llamasoft
From psychedelic shooters to ambient light synths, Jeff Minter proved that personal style could carry a commercial studio.
Overview
Jeff Minter founded Llamasoft in 1982 and promptly filled British shelves with neon shooters starring ungulates and particle storms. His work combined tight arcade mechanics with humour that felt unmistakably personal.
Fast facts
- Debut: Gridrunner (1982) on the VIC-20, ported widely.
- Trademark: surreal themes—llamas, camels, pulsating rainbows—paired with serious scoring depth.
- Longevity: still releasing games like Akka Arrh (2023) and touring with live “light synth” performances.
Influence
Minter championed self-publishing, mail-order distribution, and direct fan communication—habits that map neatly onto modern indie practices. His dev diaries in magazines offered transparency rare for the era.