Delivering one of the most stunning, lightning-fast technical achievements in microcomputer history, programming genius Bill Hogue and Jeff Konyu of Big Five Software released Super Nova (an arcade recreation of Atari's Asteroids) in 1980 for the TRS-80 Model I, utilizing hand-crafted Z80 machine code to render silky smooth 60 FPS rotational inertia physics, tumbling splitting space rocks, emergency hyperspace warps, and high-velocity alien hunting saucers.
🎬 Deep Vision & Technical Analysis
🌆 Atmosphere & Visual Direction
Authentic vintage visual direction representing landmark era aesthetic standards.
⚡ Action Pacing & Physics Engine
Systemic interaction and engaging pacing designed for historical immersion.
🎯 Performance & Launch Trajectory
An essential milestone preserved in masterclass gaming archival standard.
Super Nova is clone of Atari, Inc.’s Asteroids arcade game published by Big Five Software for the TRS-80 in 1980. Co-author Bill Hogue called Super Nova “the game that started the company.”
Gameplay
Super Nova is a game in which the player uses missiles to blow asteroids into smaller chunks, and then split them into smaller hunks which can then be completely destroyed.
Reception
Jon Mishcon reviewed Super Nova in The Space Gamer No. 36. Mishcon commented that “I found this game to be a real challenge. Recommended for any arcade buff.” In the video game magazine Moves (#57), Ian Chadwick described Super Nova as “exciting”, though criticized the lack of sound effects.
