Retro Feature: Bubble Bobble
Posted by Ryan on 3 January 2013, 17:53 GMT

As things get hectic, staff grow busy, and worlds collide, some software releases can slip through the cracks. We here at ticalc.org would like to start the new year off properly by resuming our ongoing quest to dig back through the archives and right the wrongs of history with our running "Retro Feature" segments. Today's retro feature is one that is very close to my heart; I pride myself on having played to completion every version of this title in the known universe.

The original Bubble Bobble was a quarter-destroying beast that graced the landscape of many-a-nations; featuring multiple endings, secret paths, and a soundtrack that would drive you to see bubble dragons everywhere, slowly drawing you towards the brink of insanity. The release history of ports has an archaic and noteworthy history, including contribution from some of the greatest early game music composers.

Over a decade ago, Dan "DWedit" Weiss joined the Bubble Bobble high priesthood with his release of a z80 ASM clone of the game, multiple versions of which are readily available. His release is impressively full-featured, including a full cast of monsters, items, great responsiveness, and a heck of a lot of levels to keep even the most diehard fan of the game drooling over their calcs. Don't just take my word for it:

• "It's been said before, but it cannot be said enough: Dwedit is a genius. This flawless port is a perfect showcase of the kinds of skills and talents he brings to the table." - John Carlson


• "“Bubble Bobble” is one of the best games ever made for calculators." - erik t


• "This is a great game. It is the only game that has a permanent place in my calculators memory." - Ken s


• "10/10 Being one of the few who actually owned the original 'Bubble Bobble' for DOS, this game is really a near-perfect clone of the game" - Justin Downs

Lastly, I would like to take this opportunity to point out that the z80 source code is readily available to aspiring programmers. Dan has demonstrated on multiple occasions, often with little to no fanfare, his programming prowess and ability across a number of projects for calcs. I, personally, have found his code to be accessible, clean, and nicely documented, a great accomplishment when considering the difficulty of learning assembly. We come here today not only to celebrate this fantastic bit of software, but to express appreciation for a very talented programmer.

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