JavaScript ZX Spectrum emulator – bonkers, but genius

written by Craig, 1 November 2008

JavaScript is one of the first programming languages you use when starting out in web development. It’s easy to pick up, you don’t need a server or a compiler, it’s fun, and the results are instantaneous.

Then you discover the problems. JavaScript implementations are inconsistent, browser incompatibilities are a nightmare, debugging (in pre-Firebug days) is frustrating, and JavaScript book are universally bad. Most developers turn their back on the language and stick with server-side development.

JavaScript is probably the most widely used computer language in the world – it’s in every browser, and billions of web pages use it. But it’s also the most misunderstood and misused language … which I’ll blog about at some point.

I’m a big fan of JavaScript. I’m always on the hunt for great JS effects and ideas, but this is the most bizarre I’ve found recently:

JSSpeccy – a JavaScript Sinclair ZX Spectrum emulator

There’s also an online Spectrum emulator demonstration page with a selection of games.

My first computer was a ZX Spectrum 48K. I still love the machines; they introduced thousands of people to computing and made programming available to the masses. Sinclair BASIC was great for beginners and the manuals were excellent.

Matt West has therefore managed to combine two of my favourite technologies! OK, it’s not the fastest or most usable emulator you’ll find, but the fact that it works is amazing. Matt – you’re a genius – and probably a little mad too!

add your comments
please enter your name
please enter your email address - it will not be published anywhere
please enter your website address
please enter your comments (all are moderated and checked for spam)