History of Martech in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: February 16, 2026

Martech was a video game publisher founded as Martech Games that operated from 1982 to 1989 in Pevensey Bay. They produced several successful video games across various platforms, including BBC Model B, ZX Spectrum, ZX81, MSX, Amstrad CPC, Commodore 16, Commodore 64, Atari ST, and Amiga.

1982: Early Educational Programs Developed

In 1982, David Martin purchased a BBC Model B microcomputer and began developing early educational programs. He also purchased a ZX81 and created games at home. He developed Conflict under the Martech brand with John Barry's help.

1982: Martech Games Formed

In 1982, Martech Games was formed by David Martin and John Barry, who had met at the University of Surrey.

December 1983: David Martin Focuses on Martech

In December 1983, David Martin quit teaching to focus on building Martech. John Barry became a partner in the new business.

1983: Eddie Kidd Jump Challenge Release

In 1983, Martech contracted Ian McArdle to create a motorbike stunt game. David Martin negotiated with Eddie Kidd to endorse the game called Eddie Kidd Jump Challenge, marking one of the first instances of licensed endorsements in video games.

1988: Emerald Software Established in Waterford

In 1988, David Martin, John Barry, and Mike Dixon established Emerald Software, a new games development studio, in Waterford, Ireland. The studio created games for third-party publishers, such as The Deep and Michael Jackson's Moonwalker. Martech also launched Screen 7, publishing a game based on the movie franchise Jaws.

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1989: Martech Closes Operations

In 1989, Martech closed all operations due to critical development delays in the Brighton and Waterford studios, which led to a severe cash flow crisis.

1989: Closure of Martech

In 1989, critical development delays in new studios led to the closure of Martech after an ambitious expansion program in the late 1980s.

2000: Tarzan Video Game Based on Leading Book, Comic, and Movie Character Tarzan Followed

In 2000, Martech extended its range of games beyond 'personalities' when it signed the rights to develop a range of games based on the toy Zoids for Zoids - the Battle Begins. Leading book, comic and movie character Tarzan followed for a Tarzan video game, as well as two games based on leading 2000 AD comic characters, Slaine and Nemesis the Warlock.

2000: Rage Games plc Purchases Martin's Business

In 2000, a games business established by David Martin was purchased by Liverpool based Rage Games plc, with Martin becoming the company's Licensing Director.