Screenshot of Asteroids clone game play, Jayson Ash Game Developer Studio, Sept 10, 2019
Asteroids is a classic arcade game. It was one of the more popular video games in its time. I made an Asteroids clone that simulates the game running on slightly newer hardware. This newer hardware had the graphics appear pixelated. The original version displayed glowing vectors.
Instructions for play: Use the computer keyboard if on a computer. If your device has a touchscreen use the virtual arcade button controls. The buttons with the arrows cause the ship to rotate in their respective directions. Left for counterclockwise. Right for clockwise. The button in the center causes the ship to teleport instantly to a random location. Use teleport with caution. The button to the right of the teleport button is the thrust control. Press and hold the thrust button to fire the thrusters which will propel the ship moving forward. The button on the far right is the fire button which will shoot a projectile in hopes to hit the intended target.
Asteroids Q & A
Why did you create this project?
I created this project because Asteroids was a popular game, it was easy to make, and I love space themes.
What was the most interesting thing about creating this project?
The most interesting thing about this project is that it has a random asteroid generator. The asteroid generator creates asteroids that are unique on the fly. I look forward to using this system in the future when I need more random asteroid-like objects.
What part of this project was the most challenging?
I took some time to make some modifications to my graphics creation tool. My goal was to evolve it into a more robust system for use in future projects. I ran into an issue with physics not behaving as expected with my modifications. The physics issue was that the collision detection system no longer functioned correctly. I made the modifications to support creating the different sizes of the UFO saucers. This will allow for more easily creating animation sequences in later projects.
How did you design this project and why did you design it this way?
I chose to use pixelated graphics. I wanted to use the tool I developed to assist with rapid graphics development. I also added the arcade button control system for a mobile-friendly app. This mobile-friendly approach leveraged touch controls.
What features would you like to add to this project?
I would like to add levels that increase in difficulty. At present time the one-and-only level repeats forever. I'd like to also add some more strategic AI to the UFO saucers. This will enable the game play difficulty to scale with the advancing levels.