Blitz Basic 2
Compiled BASIC power
Mark Sibly's compiled BASIC for the Amiga that produced machine-code-fast games, proving BASIC could compete with assembly - the language that built Worms.
Overview
Blitz Basic 2 was a compiled BASIC for the Amiga created by Mark Sibly and released by Acid Software in 1993. Unlike interpreted BASICs, it compiled to fast machine code—enabling games that could compete with assembly-coded titles. Blitz Basic 2 powered commercial hits including Worms and Skidmarks, definitively proving BASIC could produce professional games.
Fast Facts
- Creator: Mark Sibly
- Company: Acid Software
- Released: 1993
- Platform: Amiga
- Output: Compiled machine code
- Famous games: Worms, Skidmarks
The Compiled Difference
| Interpreted BASIC | Blitz Basic 2 |
|---|---|
| Line-by-line execution | Pre-compiled binary |
| Slow loops | Fast machine code |
| Hobbyist speed | Commercial speed |
| Learning tool | Production tool |
Key Features
| Feature | Capability |
|---|---|
| Compilation | True machine code output |
| Amiga access | Full hardware control |
| Blitter | Direct blitter programming |
| Copper | Copper list access |
| Sprites/Bobs | Complete sprite system |
| Sound | Sample playback, MODs |
Commercial Proof
Games made with Blitz Basic 2:
| Game | Developer | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Worms | Team17 | 1995 |
| Skidmarks | Acid Software | 1993 |
| Super Skidmarks | Acid Software | 1995 |
| Many others | Various | 1993-96 |
Why It Worked
Blitz Basic 2 succeeded because:
- Speed - Compiled output was fast
- Access - Full hardware features available
- Familiarity - BASIC syntax easy to learn
- Complete - Everything needed included
- Support - Good documentation, community
Blitz vs AMOS
| Aspect | Blitz Basic 2 | AMOS |
|---|---|---|
| Execution | Compiled | Interpreted |
| Speed | Very fast | Good |
| Learning | Steeper curve | Very easy |
| Low-level | More access | Abstracted |
Technical Capabilities
What Blitz enabled:
- Physics simulations (Worms)
- Fast scrolling (Skidmarks)
- Complex collision detection
- Smooth frame rates
- Professional polish
Legacy
Blitz Basic 2 proved that the choice between BASIC and assembly was a false dichotomy. Compiled BASIC could produce commercial hits indistinguishable from assembly-coded games. The language’s success influenced how developers thought about accessible game creation tools.