informa
1 MIN READ
News

Video: How graphics worked on the NES, C64 and other '80s tech

Tech enthusiast David Murray deconstructs how game developers in the '80s managed to create striking multi-colored graphics within the harsh (by modern standards) contraints of systems like the NES.

If you've ever wanted to see a simple explanation of how game developers in the '80s managed to create striking multi-colored graphics within the harsh (by modern standards) technical contraints of systems like the Nintendo Entertainment System or Commodore 64, you're in luck: there's a new YouTube video for that.

Tech enthusiast David Murray (better known in some circles as "The iBookGuy") published the video to his channel this week in an effort to elucidate some of the tricks engineers used to squeeze more complex images out of their hardware.

It's worth watching this first installment (all seven minutes' worth) to see how color generation on the NES differed from, say, the Apple II or the Atari 2600, and how hardware limitations indirectly led to developers creating some of the industry's most iconic sprites. 

CONNECT WITH US

Explore the
Advertise with
Follow us

Game Developer Job Board

Game Developer

@gamedevdotcom

Explore the

Game Developer Job Board

Browse open positions across the game industry or recruit new talent for your studio

Browse
Advertise with

Game Developer

Engage game professionals and drive sales using an array of Game Developer media solutions to meet your objectives.

Learn More
Follow us

@gamedevdotcom

Follow us @gamedevdotcom to stay up-to-date with the latest news & insider information about events & more