This Raycaster Engine shows what can be done if you know how to work the hardware. Originally released in the early 1980’s, the Texas Instruments TI-99/4A was technically a 16-bit platform. One of the earliest to be released to consumers. While that is impressive on paper, real world execution was lacking in many ways with this computer. As with most of these classic platforms, leave it to independent homebrew devs to push hard. That is what the Raycaster Engine proves.

Far from Doom quality

While Doom has been ported to many platforms, some covered here, the TI 99/4A is not one. Yet well probably never actually. What the Raycaster Engine proves though, this computer could do basic 3D. Something along the lines of Faceball 2000 with simple enemies could probably be done.

This engine could probably be adapted for an adventure or role-playing game (RPG) for travel. There are a few options available for people to build off something like this.

Raycaster Engine is smooth

What is surprising about the Raycaster Engine is how smooth it is. Sure, the graphics are blocky as hell and lack detail of any significance. Considering this is just a work in progress/proof release is quite impressive.

As you can see in the video above, there are many colors used to show different walls. This effect could probably be used to mark doors and areas to travel in a larger game.

On the surface, this is probably not all that impressive. Especially if you are used to PlayStation 4 or Nintendo Switch gaming.

For those of us that grew up with computers like the Texas Instruments 99/4A, this is very impressive. Over on Mechanism.fr they get a little technical on why the Raycaster Engine looks like this. Unlike the many ports of Dragon’s Lair to classic platforms, this is running on a stock TI 99/4A.

This is not the only impressive TI 99/4A entry by an independent homebrew developer that was impressive. Just look at these other entries for more fun.

Want to pick up a Texas Instruments 99/4A for yourself? Check eBay out, maybe Amazon but I am not holding my breath on it appearing there.

Carl Williams

It is time gaming journalism takes its rightful place as proper sources and not fanboys giving free advertising. If you wish to support writers like Carl please use the links below. https://www.paypal.me/WCW https://www.patreon.com/CarlWilliams