Learn To Code Asteroids – Course Introduction
(this is a beginners programming course but you’ll need some basic coding knowledge – check out my Space Invaders course first if you’ve never programmed before!)
Asteroids is one of my favourite games from the early arcades. It’s great fun to play, but even more fun to code for yourself. In this course I’ll take you through the complete rebuild of the game using the BBC micro version , Meteors, as a guide.
You’ll learn how to model the vector shapes in your code, move and rotate 2D points around the screen and simulate rocket motor thrust and deceleration. We’ll also learn how to add precise object collision detection where we’ll calculate if two irregular polygons are colliding using the crossing line technique.
The course is suitable for anyone who’s followed my Space Invaders course, or who has a basic understanding of computer programming. We’ll be using TIC 80 as the development system so make sure you check out the first Space Invaders lesson to find out how to get hold of the software.
Play the finished game… Asteroids
Left and right arrows rotate the ship. Up arrow thrusts forwards. Z is the fire key.
