Fresh from the July 2025 issue of Compute Gazette, Meteor Defender X16 brings back classic arcade gameplay. Designed for the Commander X16, this game was built entirely in BASIC by Steve Lewis. It offers the charm of 1980s type-in programs with modern twists.
To run Meteor Defender X16, your Commander X16 must use the R48 System ROM. The game is a single file with no outside dependencies. It runs directly in BASIC without loading extra resources.
For those curious about the code, Steve published the source and notes on GitHub. There’s also a “Try It Now” option, though emulator users may need to press CTRL+M to fix mouse input.
You can download Meteor Defender X16 for your Commander X16 / OtterX by clicking here.
Gameplay Breakdown
When the game begins, four cities sit at the bottom of the screen, each protected by a golden dome. Moments later, meteors start falling from the top. Only meteors aimed at cities are shown, making things intense but manageable.
To activate defenses, press keys 1 through 4 to choose a city. You must select one before firing. The selected city is highlighted, and its missile system becomes active. Pressing 0 disables the system for safety.
Once selected, move the yellow crosshair using your mouse. Click to fire a missile at the desired target. Each city has a limited supply of missiles. You can guide up to 10 missiles at once.
These missiles aren’t ordinary. They carry powerful warheads that detonate on impact. The blast creates a shockwave that can destroy multiple meteors at once. With skillful aim, players can stop several threats in a single hit.
However, timing matters. A meteor that slips through will hit the city’s golden dome. The first strike removes the dome. A second hit destroys the city and its missile supply completely. Once gone, that city is out of the game.
A BASIC Revival
Steve Lewis began developing Meteor Defender X16 during Christmas 2024 and completed it by spring 2025. Inspired by old-school computing magazines, the project shows how BASIC programming still thrives. The game doesn’t just entertain—it encourages hands-on coding and creativity.
Final Thoughts
Meteor Defender X16 is more than a fun arcade game. It’s a tribute to the days when you typed in your own software and learned by doing. For retro fans and BASIC enthusiasts, it’s a must-play.
