C64 Games memories - Bandits 1983

In this video we look at Bandits from 1983. How it uses bitmap and text modes, draws bullets and enemies, and uses dynamic character sets for lots of software sprites.
github.com/martinpiper/Debugg...
github.com/martinpiper/C1541-...
00:11 Introduction
00:43 Using C64DebugGUI to examine the graphics
01:20 Title sequence using bitmap
02:50 Nice transition betwwen title and game
02:59 Game start
03:08 Scrolling starfield
03:20 Where are the hardware sprites?
05:06 Mostly using software sprites
05:35 Love, care, and attention
06:16 Investigating the disk image
08:22 Checking bitmap screen usage
08:40 Text mode for the game, dynamic charsets
10:03 Code debugging in Vice and ICU64
13:01 Backup bitmap screen in memory
15:29 Double buffered screens and charsets
16:58 Finding code for software sprites
24:25 Understanding the rendering logic
25:30 Animation frames source data
26:39 Software bitmap wobble scroll
27:28 Game over text animation
30:56 Summary of things found

[@crayzeape2230]

Originally released on the Apple ][ in 1982. The reason for all the software sprites is the lack of hardware sprites on the Apple machine.

[@OlivierSimpleLife]

thank you !!!!!!!!! just starting to watch :) excellent debug session !

[@MartinPiper6502]

Glad you like it!

[@jackmf3960]

Another excellent movie, thanks. I really like this breakdown into component parts. It allows me to understand the magic that Game Developers used. :) Have you seen the Air Support game? You fly a helicopter over fighting people, of whom there are hundreds on the screen. I thought it was a fun game to check out too, even though it's not very popular. :)

[@MartinPiper6502]

Is it Air Support 1984 Synapse Software? I will add it to the list.

[@cpu_UP]

Thanks, for this very interesting analysis. I did not know the game, but it is a pleasure to see these hidden gems and dissect their code to understand how they were doing.

[@MartinPiper6502]

Glad you liked it and thank you for the super thanks :)

[@NecroPolo]

This series is amazing. Great work my friend :)

[@MartinPiper6502]

Thanks a ton!

[@gfdggdfgdgf]

Nice video! Good information and a pleasant voice

[@MartinPiper6502]

So nice of you

[@michaeljarcher]

I like it if you did a technical look at Rampage UK C64 version. Three players at the same time sprites was challenging.

[@MartinPiper6502]

Good idea, I'll add it to the list.

[@alanbourke4069]

Always loved Bandits (even if like Dropzone the Atari 800 version is better)