Action!: A Retro IDE for the Atari 8-bit

This article revisits Action!, a compiled language for the Atari 8-bit computer. Created by Clinton Parker, Action! was optimized for the 6502 CPU and featured an integrated development environment (IDE) including a monitor, compiler, text editor, and debugger—a rarity for 8-bit systems. While less advanced than C or Pascal, its speed, innovative editor (with features like scrolling and split-screen), and tight integration made it stand out. The author recounts their experience acquiring and using Action!, discussing its limitations and how add-ons like Action! RunTime and Action! ToolKit partially addressed them. Action! primarily saw use in hobbyist and magazine software.