«Mirax Force» for Atari 8-bit computers | Review
A title worth remembering not only for its gameplay but also for its technical innovations and unusual sound details on the platform.
5 min read
views
Developed by Chris Murray and published by Tynesoft in 1987, «Mirax Force» is a shoot-'em-up for Atari 8-bit computers, inspired by the classic Uridium on the C64. It was released at a time when the popularity of 8-bit systems was declining, with the market shifting towards 16-bit platforms like the Atari ST and Amiga. Despite this, it managed to stand out due to its technical innovation and gameplay, serving as an example of creativity within the independent scene of the time.
Aboard the Star Quest ship, you must fly—at a fixed altitude—over the surface of an enemy mothership, destroying key structures and facing waves of Martians. The enemy ship is ultimately destroyed by continuously firing at the large dome at the far end until it triggers a final explosion. Additionally, according to MobyGames, the game features a scoring system and changes background colors each time a life is lost. Unlike Uridium, which offered 15 levels named after metallic elements and a landing mini-game, «Mirax Force» focuses on destroying the main reactor in a more linear setting, with repetitive stages but color changes that break the monotony.The screen scrolls horizontally in both directions, adding an extra layer of complexity as you must dodge obstacles like towers and buildings while engaging enemies. The speed of movement and the need for quick turns to avoid collisions demand precision and sharp reflexes.
Murray employed advanced techniques to maximize the capabilities of the Atari 8-bit’s limited hardware. He used display list interrupts to simulate multiple sprites with just one, achieving visually impressive effects for the time. In an interview, Murray explained that he had already experimented with techniques such as smooth horizontal scrolling and sound digitization, completing the game in just 56.5 hours according to his records.
The sound design is minimalist but effective. The sound effects, including gunfire and explosions, are simple yet fitting. One standout feature is the inclusion of digitized voice samples, a rarity in 8-bit games. Phrases like "The battle begins" and "Game over" were recorded by Murray himself using a Replay sound cartridge. According to the Atari Owners' Club, this process was achieved by manipulating the POKEY chip, setting the channel to volume mode, and rapidly updating the register to play 4-bit digital samples. This reduced memory requirements but limited sound quality. However, the absence of a soundtrack during gameplay is a notable omission, though understandable given the limited development time.
Murray developed «Mirax Force» in just 11 days as part of a personal challenge with a friend. Both had spent years enjoying games on their Atari 400 before Murray decided to create his own title. He bought the book Programming the 6502 and the MAC/65 cartridge to learn to program. Notably, Murray began programming at age 16 in 1983, reflecting the enthusiasm and talent of young developers in the UK, where access to hardware was limited due to high costs, allowing systems like the C64 and ZX Spectrum to dominate the market. Despite the tight timeframe, he delivered a technically impressive and challenging game.
Display list interrupts simulate multiple sprites on screen.
«Mirax Force» received highly positive reviews upon release. Atari User magazine praised its graphics and colors as "an impressive display," while Aktueller Software Markt urged players to purchase it without hesitation. Though it did not achieve the fame of other contemporary titles, its combination of intense action and technical innovation has secured it a special place among 8-bit video games. Moreover, its availability on sites like My Abandonware and its presence in forums like AtariAge demonstrate the continued appreciation of the retro gaming community, despite no known ports to other platforms or sequel plans.
Interestingly, in «Mirax Force», you can crash into any object that casts an imposing shadow, no matter how trivial it may seem. Unfortunately, your shots do not stop when hitting these obstacles, meaning there is no clear visual cue indicating which objects you cannot fly over without losing a life (something that, if I recall correctly, Uridium did provide). Likewise, apart from the color changes, each stage is virtually identical to the previous one, which can become monotonous after a few playthroughs. No details about the box art were found, but it is known that the game was available on 5.25" disk and cassette, according to MobyGames.
EVALUATION
All in all, «Mirax Force» is a retro gem that stands out for its challenging gameplay and technical details that surprised the community. For fans of classic retro games, this title has become a cult experience that remains worth revisiting. Despite being released during the decline of 8-bit systems, its innovation and rapid development solidify it as a milestone in independent software history.Trivia
• Murray included references to metal bands like Metallica in the game’s code—details that were only discovered years later by players analyzing the program.• Just like in another of his games, Henry’s House, players can unlock invincibility by entering the programmer’s initials (CPM) on the title screen.
Posted by
Please comment politely. Spam comments will be moderated. Thank you.