Start Here

[+SpiceWare]

NOTE: This tutorial is being replaced with one for CDFJ+.

 

NOTE: I want to clarify up front that this is an advanced Atari 2600 programming series. As such, I will not be covering basic things like triggering a Vertical Sync, what a Kernel is, why you need to set a timer for Vertical Blank, etc. If you need to learn that you should check out with the following:

 

• Collect - detailed development of a 2K game
• 2600 Programming for Newbies - use the Sorted Table of Contents topic that's pinned at the top in order to easily access the tutorial topics in order.
   

CDFJ Tutorial Index

 

• Part 1 - CDFJ Overview
  Initial overview of CDFJ
   
• Part 2 - CDFJ Details
  Registers, Datastreams, etc.
   
• Part 3 - Beginnings of Collect 3
  Framework for Collect 3
   
• Part 4 - CDFJ Debugging with Stella
  A look at Stella's Debugger
   
• Part 5 - Source Improvements
  Minor revisions to the project
   
• Part 6 - Console Detection
  2600 or 7800? NTSC, PAL, or SECAM?
   
• Part 7 - Menu
  Added menu, C data in 6507 source
   
• Part 8 - Score & Timer
  Added score kernel with some diagnostics
   
• Part 9 - Arena
  Added arena, utilizes incremental data streams and fast jump

 

NOTE: Check out Start Here in the General forum for instructions on how to set up an environment for CDFJ development.