asteroids/README.md

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!