History of Martech in Timeline

Martech, originally Martech Games, was a video game publisher active from 1982 to 1989 in Pevensey Bay. They produced successful games for various platforms, including the BBC Model B, ZX Spectrum, MSX, Amstrad CPC, Commodore 16/64, Atari ST, and Amiga. The company ceased operations after a relatively short period but left a mark on the early home computer gaming scene.

1982: Early Educational Programs and Game Development

In 1982, David Martin purchased a BBC Model B microcomputer and began developing educational programs. He also purchased a ZX81 and began programming games at home.

1982: Martech Games Formed

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

December 1983: David Martin Quits Teaching to Focus on Martech

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

1983: Martech Contracts Ian McArdle and Uses Licensed Endorsement

In 1983, Martech contracted freelance programmer Ian McArdle to work on a new motorbike stunt game and negotiated with Eddie Kidd to endorse the game Eddie Kidd Jump Challenge, making Martech one of the first publishers to use a licensed endorsement on a video game.

1988: Emerald Software Established in Waterford, Ireland

In 1988, David Martin and John Barry, together with Mike Dixon, established Emerald Software in Waterford, Ireland, a major new games development studio. The first Martech game from this studio was Phantom Fighter.

1989: Martech Operations Cease

In 1989, Martech ceased operations in Pevensey Bay after being active since 1982.

1989: Martech Closes Operations

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

1989: Martech Closes Due to Development Delays

In 1989, critical development delays in the new Brighton and Waterford studios led to the closure of Martech.

1994: David Martin Establishes Own Games Businesses

In 1994, David Martin left Gremlin Interactive to establish his own games businesses.

2000: Video Game Based on Toy Zoids Released

In 2000, Martech extended its range of games when it signed the rights to develop a range of games based on the toy Zoids for Zoids - the Battle Begins, the game becoming one of its most successful chart hits that claimed several media and industry awards.

2000: One of Martin's Businesses Purchased by Rage Games plc

In 2000, one of David Martin's games businesses was purchased by Liverpool based Rage Games plc, with Martin becoming the companies Licensing Director.