Summary
- Release Year: 1991
- Genres: Adventure, Platform, Role-playing game (RPG)
- Platforms: DOS
- Developers: Epic Games
- Publishers: Epic Games
ZZT (1991): A DOS-Based ASCII Game Creator
Released in 1991, ZZT is a DOS-based ASCII game creation program that allows users to create their own top-down shooter or adventure games. It is notable for its simplicity and ease of use, as well as its built-in object-based programming language, which allows for added complexity.
ZZT was created by Tim Sweeney, who would later go on to found Epic Games, the developer of the Unreal Engine and the Fortnite series. ZZT was inspired by Sweeney’s earlier game, Jill of the Jungle, which was also an ASCII-based top-down shooter.
ZZT’s interface is simple and straightforward. The main screen is divided into two parts: the game world on the left, and the object list and programming window on the right. The game world is a grid-based map, with each square representing a different type of terrain or object.
The object list contains all of the objects that can be placed in the game world, including the player character, enemies, items, and scenery. Each object has a set of properties that can be edited, such as its appearance, behavior, and interactions with other objects.
The programming window allows users to create custom scripts for their games. These scripts can be used to control the behavior of objects, create cutscenes, and even generate random levels.
ZZT’s programming language is relatively simple, but it is powerful enough to create complex and sophisticated games. It includes commands for movement, collision detection, object interaction, and more.
One of the most unique features of ZZT is its ability to generate random levels. This allows users to create games with infinite replayability. The random level generator can be customized to create different types of levels, such as mazes, dungeons, and forests.
ZZT was a popular game in the early 1990s, and it is still enjoyed by many people today. It is a great tool for learning about game design and programming, and it can also be used to create fun and engaging games.
ZZT Community
There is a dedicated community of ZZT fans who continue to create and share new games and mods. There are also several websites and forums where ZZT players can connect with each other and share their creations.
The ZZT community is very welcoming and supportive, and it is a great place to learn more about the game and find inspiration for your own creations.
ZZT Legacy
ZZT has had a significant impact on the video game industry. It was one of the first games to allow users to create their own custom levels and mods, and it helped to popularize the concept of user-generated content.
ZZT also influenced the development of several commercial games, including Epic Games’ own Unreal Tournament series. The Unreal Tournament games feature a similar top-down perspective and object-based programming language to ZZT.
ZZT is a classic game that is still enjoyed by many people today. It is a great tool for learning about game design and programming, and it can also be used to create fun and engaging games.
Conclusion
ZZT is a unique and influential game that has had a lasting impact on the video game industry. It is a great example of how simple tools can be used to create complex and engaging experiences.
If you are interested in learning more about ZZT, I encourage you to check out the following resources:
- The ZZT Wiki: https://zzt.fandom.com/wiki/ZZT_Wiki
- The ZZT community forum: https://www.zzt.org/forum/
- The ZZT Discord server: https://discord.gg/zzt
I hope this article has given you a better understanding of ZZT and its legacy. Thanks for reading!
Review Score
7.5/10
