STOS
Atari ST game creation
François Lionet's game creation language for the Atari ST that preceded AMOS, bringing accessible game development to the ST platform.
Overview
STOS (ST Organised System) was a game creation language for the Atari ST created by François Lionet and released in 1988. It preceded AMOS on the Amiga and established the template—BASIC syntax combined with game-specific commands for sprites, sound, and graphics. STOS made game development accessible on the ST platform.
Fast Facts
- Creator: François Lionet
- Released: 1988
- Platform: Atari ST
- Publisher: Mandarin Software
- Successor: AMOS (Amiga)
- Type: Game creation BASIC
Key Features
| Feature | Capability |
|---|---|
| Sprites | Software sprite system |
| Graphics | Drawing commands |
| Sound | ST sound chip access |
| Animation | Built-in support |
| Collision | Detection routines |
The STOS Approach
Lionet’s design philosophy:
- BASIC syntax - Familiar language
- Game focus - Everything needed for games
- Integrated - Editor, compiler, tools
- Accessible - Anyone could learn
- Capable - Real games possible
Compared to GFA BASIC
| Aspect | STOS | GFA BASIC |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Games | General |
| Sprites | Built-in | Separate |
| Learning | Easier | More powerful |
| Audience | Beginners | Broader |
STOS Community
A thriving scene developed:
- Magazine coverage (ST Format, etc.)
- Public domain games
- Extension libraries
- User groups
- Books and tutorials
Path to AMOS
STOS established patterns AMOS would refine:
- Game-focused BASIC
- Integrated sprite tools
- Built-in screen handling
- Sound commands
- Complete environment
Legacy
STOS proved the concept that Lionet would perfect with AMOS—that game development tools could be powerful yet accessible. It enabled countless ST users to create their first games and established Lionet as a significant figure in game creation tools.