CONNECT4 - a new game for MK14

[Realtime]

Here's a new game for the MK14 fitted with expansion memory and a VDU interface.

CONNECT4 is the classic noughts-and-crosses style game that requires you to get 4 of your counters in a row to win. In this version of the game you are playing against the MK14. The computer's algorithm is quite complex but still only achieves the playing skill of a 3-4 year old (maybe). At least the MK14 won't walk off half way through the game and do something else

You need RAM at 0x200-0x7FF, 0xB00-0xBFF and 0xF00 - 0xFFF but don't need the INS8154 fitted. The VDU display is located 0x200-0x3FF.

Attached is the .hex file. I had a major crash of my computer and lost the .asm. Fortunately Phil_G's SCMP Disassembler has allowed me to start recreating that so l'll post it when I've re-constructed it.

Controls are very simple.

• Run the game from 0x400
• Press GO to start. It's random as to whether the MK14 or you starts first
• Drop a token into the required column by pressing keys 1 - 7.

A more challenging variation is to try and avoid being the winner. You need to stop the computer getting four in a row but also choose your play so you stay in the game as long as possible. If the entire matrix fills up without a winner then a Stalemate is declared.

[Timbucus]

Truly we live in the Golden age of the MK14...

[SiriusHardware]

Still to come: 3D monster maze for the MK14.

(I'm kidding... I think).

Seriously, Realtime and Coolsnaz2 are creating a library with a quality that the MK14 / VDU combination never really had back in the day.

[Phil__G]

Originally Posted by Timbucus

Truly we live in the Golden age of the MK14...

Originally Posted by SiriusHardware

Seriously, Realtime and Coolsnaz2 are creating a library with a quality that the MK14 / VDU combination never really had back in the day.

Had these two been on Clives team back in 1977, can you imagine the effect their programs would have had on sales of Nascoms, Kims and such?
With an MK14 offering Space Invaders, Solitaire, Copycat, Connect-4 etc why spend £200+ on anything else?

[Timbucus]

Indeed in preparation for the Retro Festival this coming weekend I finally got around to trying the games on my MKVI and OrtonView as part of the making sure it all works. They are great - I did beat the connect 4 but, it does play a pretty good game!