Forth on the Commodore 64

code.google.com

5 pointsfreedrull5 comments

I got started with programming on a commodore 64 and after not realizing there was an easier way to do it than machine language, moved on to using a c-64 fig forth implementation for writing video games called White Lightning ( http://www.crashonline.org.uk/08/whitelig.htm ).

Ah, nostalgia.

edit: that link is to a non c-64 version. couldn't find anything on the c-64 version in my lazy search.

I have really good memories of using Forth on 8-bit computers (I played a lot with GraFORTH on my Apple II clone). It may have undone some of the damage learning BASIC did...

Everyone is always amazed that I only know three bits of BASIC syntax... does it really do damage?

I, personally, don't think so. I think it's a lot like a low entry barrier: before BASIC, it was hard to program those 8-bit computers. After BASIC, a lot of people who have no particular inclination or ability towards programming computers called themselves programmers and inflicted their creations upon innocent users.

I remember wanting White Lightning so bad for the C64. Good find.

Reply on news.ycombinator.com