The ZX Spectrum Next has just got an incredible new release with the surprise launch of L’Abbaye des Morts, a custom port debuted specifically for ByteFest 2026 in Prague, Czech Republic. The annual four-day festival, running from September 25 to September 28 at the Toulcův dvůr venue, serves as a massive hub for vintage computing fans to celebrate everything from the Amiga and Commodore to Atari and Amstrad. Originally crafted by indie developer Locomalito in 2010 as a nostalgic nod to classic 8-bit software, this definitive port finally brings the game’s dark, haunting atmosphere directly onto the hardware that inspired it.
Stepping into the shoes of Jean, a fugitive Cathar monk, players must navigate a punishing, non-linear fortress spanning 23 interconnected screens filled with precise platforming challenges and environmental puzzles. Heavily influenced by legendary retro titles like Manic Miner and Jet Set Willy, the game features no combat mechanics whatsoever. Survival depends entirely on perfectly timed jumps, hiding from terrifying supernatural foes, and relying on pure faith to endure the deadly traps scattered throughout the abbey.
ZX Spectrum Next features
- Graphics displayed at the original 256 × 192 pixel resolution.
- Two switchable graphics sets: a classic 8-bit look and a shaded 16-bit version.
- Layer 2 backgrounds and hardware sprites.
- Music, sound effects and a status panel adapted for the ZX Spectrum Next hardware.
- Keyboard and Kempston joystick support.
- A single non-linear adventure lasting approximately 30 minutes.
Credits and acknowledgements
- Original game: Locomalito
- Music and sound effects: Gryzor87
- Open-source SDL port: nevat and contributors
- ZX Spectrum Next port: created for ByteFest 2026 (code and music: Shrek/MB Maniax)
Sorry for the down time everyone on IndieRetroNews, had to take a short break due to health reasons!
Original article by www.indieretronews.com
