How I converted BBC Micro Elite into a two-player game

Description and use

Converted Elite for BBC Micro into a two-player game, enabling simultaneous play on a single machine.

Problem

The original BBC Micro Elite game supported only single-player mode, limiting multiplayer engagement.

Outcome

The modified Elite runs smoothly with two players controlling separate ships, sharing the same screen and game logic.

Workflow

• 1. Analyzed Elite’s source code to locate input handling routines.
• 2. Added a second input buffer to read from an additional keyboard port.
• 3. Modified the game loop to process both players’ actions each frame.
• 4. Adjusted rendering logic to display both players’ positions on screen.
• 5. Tested the modified game on a real BBC Micro and an emulator.
• 6. Refined timing and collision detection to ensure fair play.

Evidence

I added a second input buffer to read from an additional keyboard port and modified the game loop to process both players’ actions each frame.

Source