RobSmithDev returns with a seasonal project that showcases GhostLight creation using AMOS. In this new Halloween-themed tutorial, he builds a maze game where players must escape a haunted labyrinth, lighting matches to keep lurking ghosts at bay. As the flame fades, darkness creeps back in, and the ghosts reappear.
To make the maze different each time, Rob uses a clever reverse backtracking algorithm. It carves paths through a virtual grid, building unpredictable layouts with very little code. He explains each step clearly, showing how simple logic can generate surprisingly complex mazes. The game’s tight structure and compact AMOS routines keep everything efficient, with clear emphasis on smooth gameplay.
The next challenge in GhostLight creation involves managing limited visibility. Rob keeps the player centered as the maze scrolls beneath them, using fading light effects that mimic flickering illumination. By shifting tiles in small pixel increments, the illusion of moving shadows is achieved without slowing the system down. His creative use of screen buffers and tile maps brings smooth motion even on classic Amiga hardware.
As the build progresses, Rob introduces dynamic lighting and sound. Matches flare brightly before dimming to a ghostly blue, while background music and eerie sound effects deepen the tension. Sprites for the player, ghosts, and glowing matchsticks add color and character. The ghosts wander intelligently, vanishing when light appears and reemerging when darkness falls.
The final game, fittingly titled GhostLight, captures that perfect blend of spooky atmosphere and simple mechanics. Rob wraps it up with a finished demo and makes both the source code and the game available on his itch.io page. It’s a fun, educational look at how creativity and AMOS programming combine for hauntingly good results.
