Retro Computing - the Amiga

**** in progress, to be completed Dec 2023.

Birth of the Amiga

The Amiga computer was conceived by a group of former Atari engineers, led by Jay Miner. In 1982, they founded Amiga Corporation and began working on a revolutionary computer system. Their goal was to create a machine that combined advanced graphics and audio capabilities with powerful processing, which was a groundbreaking idea at the time.

The Amiga 1000, was introduced in 1985. It featured a multitasking operating system, advanced graphics and audio capabilities, and a custom chipset that set it apart from other personal computers of the era. While the Amiga 1000 was not an immediate commercial success, it laid the foundation for what was to come.

The Golden Age of Amiga

The late 1980s and early 1990s are often referred to as the "Golden Age" of the Amiga computer. During this period, the Amiga experienced a remarkable rise in popularity and left an indelible mark on the world of personal computing. Several factors contributed to the Amiga's prominence during this era, making it a beloved platform among creative professionals, gamers, and multimedia enthusiasts.

Gaming Revolution

The Amiga was a veritable gaming powerhouse during its Golden Age. It provided a home for many iconic games that continue to be celebrated today. Titles like "Lemmings," "The Secret of Monkey Island," "Wing Commander," and "Speedball 2: Brutal Deluxe" originated on the Amiga, earning it a well-deserved reputation as a gaming paradise. The platform's impressive graphics, smooth scrolling, and innovative gameplay set new standards in the gaming industry.

Demoscene Culture

The demoscene, a subculture of computer enthusiasts dedicated to creating audio-visual demos that pushed hardware to its limits, flourished on the Amiga. Demos like "State of the Art" by Spaceballs and "Hardwired" by Crionics showcased the platform's graphical and musical prowess. These artistic demonstrations were not only entertaining but also inspired others to explore the Amiga's creative potential.

Desktop Publishing and Video Production

Amiga's graphic and multimedia capabilities made it a go-to platform for desktop publishing and video production. Software like Deluxe Paint and Video Toaster empowered individuals and small studios to create professional-quality content. This contributed to the Amiga's popularity in the fields of advertising, television, and independent film production.

Original Hardware

Emulated Hardware - Amiga Mini introduction and custom boot loaders.

The Games