TIC-80

TIC-80

TIC-80 is a free and open-source fantasy computer and game development environment that allows users to create, share, and play retro styled games. It has built-in tools for development like code, sprites, maps, sound editors and runs games in an emulated environment.
TIC-80 image
retro fantasy-console game-development emulator

TIC-80: Free Fantasy Computer & Game Development Environment

A free and open-source tool for creating retro-styled games with built-in development tools, including code editor, sprite editor, map editor, sound editor, and an emulated game environment.

What is TIC-80?

TIC-80 is a free and open-source fantasy computer and game development environment that emulates a 1980s computer with 256 color display, 16 color sprites, 6 channel sound and built-in tools for development like code, sprites, maps, and sound editors.

It allows users to create, share, and play tiny retro styled games. The environment runs the games in an emulated environment that mimics the look and feel of games from the early 80s. Some key features include:

  • Cartridge size limited to 30kb
  • 240x136 display with 16 color sprites
  • Built-in code, sprite, map, sound editors
  • Mouse, keyboard, gamepad controls
  • Lua scripting language
  • Export cartridges as stand-alone HTML5 games
  • Share cartridges with other TIC-80 users

With its constraints and simple toolset, TIC-80 makes creating small retro styled games quick and fun. The active community encourages sharing creations and learning from each other. It's a great entry point for aspiring game developers to hone their skills.

TIC-80 Features

Features

  1. Pixel art editor for sprites and tiles
  2. Map editor for world/level design
  3. Code editor for writing Lua scripts
  4. Sound editor for composing SFX and music
  5. Cartridge format for sharing games
  6. Emulated fantasy computer environment

Pricing

  • Free
  • Open Source

Pros

Free and open source

Easy to use interface

Active community support

Cross-platform (Windows, Mac, Linux, HTML5)

Cons

Limited to simulated retro hardware

Steep learning curve for coding

No native networking support


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