IMHO the key distinction is between BASIC, the group of languages, and VB, the SDK. The article notes this but I think it is really the crux. In other words, did BASIC draw us in because it is a straightforward language? Or because of the power that VB provided?

As others point out, many hobbyists still use variants of BASIC...I don't think we can claim it's the most practical language for most uses, but it has its niche for sure, and is fun to use.

Visual Basic, however, while at the time representing a _fantastic_ entry point to development (at least it was for me), has been legitimately replaced by other, newer models, some of which the article notes.