We caught up with CHRIS READ, the creator of the TUNNELS OF TERROR game for the world’s best console that is launching worldwide this week. In this interview Chris talks about his work as a game programmer for the best console in the world, Tunnels of Terror, programming and sends you a message that you are going to play this incredible game… Let’s go…
Hi Chris Read, thank you so much for creating this wonderful game for the Odyssey library. We want to know a little about the creator of this wonderful world within the Odyssey universe. How was your first contact with Odyssey?
I first saw an Odyssey 2 at a used video game shop. This was when I was first getting started with retro gaming. So I bought it.
What is your favorite Odyssey game?
There are so many! Pick Ax Pete is one. Billiards is another one I enjoy.
How and when did you decide to make your first game for the best video game in the world?
My first game was Fatso. I made that in 2012. I decided to make games as soon as I learned it was a possibility.
We know that you also program for other video games, what is the difference between Odyssey and others?
I think the most interesting aspect of Odyssey 2 programming is the fact that the code must be in “pages” of 256 bytes and if they overlap you get an error message. This is also true for the Atari 2600 assembly I learned later.
Shall we talk a little about TUNNElS? When did the idea to do it come about? What is your connection with Turmoil?
Tunnels of Terror came about when someone on the videopac.nl forums linked to a Colecovision version of Turmoil and suggested it was fit for the Odyssey 2. I had no Odyssey 2 projects at the time, so I began programming it.
What were the biggest challenges in porting this game to Odyssey?
I think the biggest challenge is the fact that the Odyssey 2 is limited to just 4 sprites.
What was it like to play for the first time?
I always enjoy finishing a game, and Tunnels of Terror was no exception. I really enjoy this game.
In your opinion, what does this game add to the Odyssey library?
Looking at the Odyssey 2 library, I always enjoy a game where you shoot at aliens.
Send a message to those who will play tunnels…
Thanks for buying and playing my game! I hope you enjoy it as much as I liked programming it.
Note: The photos show the printed material in Portuguese, but the version sold outside Brazil is entirely in English
