Oblast: a better Blasto game for the Commodore 64
a day ago
- The author completed a personal project called 'Oblast', a modern reimagining of the classic game TI Blasto for the Commodore 64.
- Oblast features faster action, procedurally generated screens, customizable gameplay, and free availability for real C64 or emulators.
- The original 1978 Blasto and its TI-99 port had limitations like single simultaneous projectiles, no shooting during explosions, and impassible obstacles.
- Oblast uses extended background color mode (ECM) for flexible visuals, custom character sets, and sprite-based tank and shell rendering.
- Key technical innovations include constant-time explosion propagation, 240Hz kernel timer for smooth motion, and no additional loading after initial boot.
- The game offers four presets, full configuration options, up to 384 procedurally generated screens, and a scoring system with hidden bonuses.
- Oblast is open source under the Floodgap Free Software License, with builds available as .prg files for floppy disks, tape, cartridges, or emulators.