QL-Zero

Futuristic racing for the original Sinclair QL — in just 128 KB of RAM.

Inspired by F-Zero and F-Zero X, QL-Zero brings hovercraft racing, energy management and machine-to-machine combat to Sinclair’s 68008-powered computer. Master the corners, recharge your energy and decide when to spend it on a boost—or take the fight to your rivals with a spinning attack.

Four ways to race:

• GP Race: compete against two CPU opponents in a six-race Classic Cup, with four difficulty levels.
• Time Attack: chase your best times and race against your saved ghost.
• Practice: learn the tracks with unlimited energy and no opponents.
• Death Race: destroy both rivals as quickly as possible.

Explore six circuits inspired by Mute City, Red Canyon, Big Blue, Sector Alpha, Sand Ocean and Silence, each with its own environment and music. Features include eight musical themes adapted to the QL’s sound hardware, directional ship sprites, a mini-map, persistent records and a victory ceremony.

The source release also includes a Python track and graphics editor, with driving previews and a free camera for inspecting your creations.

Runs on a real Sinclair QL with 128 KB and Microdrive, and on NanoQL. A writable cartridge is needed to retain records and ghosts.

Created for the 2026 Retro Programmers United for Obscure Systems Sinclair QL jam, with development assistance from Chat GPT 6.1 Sol.

Visit the GitHub repository for source code, releases, documentation and editing tools.

An independent, noncommercial tribute to Nintendo’s F-Zero series.