Asteroids (1979 Clone)
A faithful Python + Pygame reimplementation of the classic 1979 Atari Asteroids arcade game.
Gameplay
- Pilot your triangular ship through a field of asteroids
- Rotate, thrust, and shoot to survive
- Asteroids break into smaller pieces when hit
- Everything wraps around the edges of the screen (toroidal topology)
- Score points by destroying asteroids
- You have 3 lives — avoid collisions!
Features Implemented
- Vector-style line graphics (classic look)
- Smooth ship rotation and acceleration
- Bullet firing with limited on-screen bullets
- Large/Medium/Small asteroids with proper splitting
- Screen wrapping for ship, asteroids, and bullets
- Score counter and lives display
- Game over / restart
- Simple sound effects using Pygame mixer (optional)
Controls
| Key | Action |
|---|---|
| Left/Right | Rotate ship |
| Up | Thrust forward |
| Space | Fire bullet |
| H | Hyperspace (random jump) |
| P | Pause / Resume |
| R | Restart (game over) |
| ESC | Quit |
How to Run
# Install dependencies
pip install -r requirements.txt
# Run the game
python asteroids.py
Requirements
- Python 3.8 or newer
- Pygame >= 2.0
Notes
This is a fan recreation for learning and fun. It captures the core mechanics and feel of the 1979 original. No original assets or code from Atari are used.
Enjoy the nostalgia!