Shiny Object Syndrome
One of the big problems that I have with Atari 2600 code development is the ever present "shiny object syndrome". For those who are not familiar with this term, it means that you get easily distracted from a task by cool things that you discover along the way. The problem is that the beginning of a project is exciting, as you struggle to fit your game concept into the constraints of the machine. For example, I find writing the display kernel is a particularly enjoyable process. But, once the main problems have been overcome, and the essence of the game is complete, it becomes increasingly more difficult to finish off the tedious tasks that remain. Usually at this point, the next game idea is burning away in my mind, and I can't wait to get started. I have had this problem with all of the games that I have developed so far. Each one is around 95% complete, and only a few rough edges remain. However, as each game has neared completion, I have learned more about the Atari and I can see cool new techniques that I just can't wait to use. I am currently having this problem with Hunchy 2. The main game is complete, and all of the key issues have all been resolved. There are now just a few wrinkles that I should sort out before the final release. However, I have now been reading up on the Supercharger, and I can see a load of possibilities for great new games. I can see that it must take real discipline to get a game ready for a cart release on the Atari. With any luck, the upcoming minigame multi-cart will force me to complete these games, and then I can start the next project properly (more on this another time).Chris
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