PC-BASIC

Rob Hagemans ❘ Open Source

Reviving Vintage Computing: PC-BASIC Delivers a Nostalgic Experience

Elena Angelini

02/19/2025

PC-BASIC is a modern implementation of the classic BASIC programming language that allows users to run and create programs from the early computing era with ease and accessibility.

PC-BASIC is an open-source software project created by Rob Hagemans. It is a programming language interpreter that allows users to write and execute programs in a dialect of BASIC on their personal computers.

The project was initiated in 2008, with the goal of providing a historical computing experience for modern users. In the early days of computing, BASIC was often the first programming language learned by many aspiring programmers. By creating this interpreter, Hagemans hoped to introduce a new generation of users to the joys of programming in BASIC.

The software operates on modern operating systems and provides features such as line numbers, variable handling, and drawing commands. It also includes a built-in editor for creating and modifying code.

One of the key advantages of PC-BASIC is its accuracy in emulating the behavior of classic BASIC implementations. This aspect makes it an ideal tool for those interested in programming nostalgia, as well as those looking to learn or teach the basics of programming.

PC-BASIC provides a user-friendly and accessible way to explore the history and fundamentals of computer programming.

Overview

PC-BASIC is a Open Source software in the category Development developed by Rob Hagemans.

The latest version of PC-BASIC is currently unknown. It was initially added to our database on 12/19/2021.

PC-BASIC runs on the following operating systems: Windows.

PC-BASIC has not been rated by our users yet.

Pros

Emulates vintage BASIC programming environments accurately.
Supports multiple versions of BASIC, including GW-BASIC and QuickBASIC.
Cross-platform compatibility, running on Windows, macOS, and Linux.
User-friendly interface that is easy for beginners.
Includes support for loading and saving program files.
Provides a comprehensive set of features for programming and debugging.
Active community and regular updates from the developer.

Cons

Limited to BASIC programming, which may not appeal to users looking for modern language features.
Some features may be less intuitive for those not familiar with older BASIC dialects.
Performance can lag compared to more modern programming environments.
Documentation may not be exhaustive for advanced users.
Niche application; not widely used outside the retro programming community.

FAQ

What is PC-BASIC?

PC-BASIC is a free implementation of GW-BASIC, the interpreter for the BASIC programming language developed by Microsoft for use with their MS-DOS operating system.

Who is behind PC-BASIC?

PC-BASIC is developed by Rob Hagemans, a computer scientist and software developer.

Is PC-BASIC free to use?

Yes, PC-BASIC is open-source and available for free under the GNU General Public License.

What platforms does PC-BASIC support?

PC-BASIC is primarily designed for Windows operating systems, but it can also run on Linux and macOS using compatibility layers like Wine or DOSBox.

Can I run my old GW-BASIC programs with PC-BASIC?

Yes, PC-BASIC aims to be compatible with programs written for GW-BASIC, making it possible to run your old programs on modern systems.

Does PC-BASIC have a modern IDE for programming?

PC-BASIC itself does not come with a modern IDE, but it can be used with text editors like Notepad++ or Visual Studio Code for editing and debugging.

Is PC-BASIC suitable for beginners to learn programming?

Yes, PC-BASIC's simplicity and ease of use make it a good choice for beginners to learn the fundamentals of programming in a structured manner.

Are there any limitations to using PC-BASIC compared to modern programming languages?

PC-BASIC is limited in terms of modern features and performance compared to contemporary languages like Python or JavaScript, but it can still be useful for legacy programming or educational purposes.

Can I contribute to the development of PC-BASIC?

Yes, PC-BASIC is an open-source project, and contributions from the community are welcome. You can check the project's GitHub page for more information on how to contribute.

Elena Angelini

I'm Elena, your go-to software reviewer at UpdateStar and tech enthusiast. Whether you're a user seeking the latest software titles or software news I've got you covered. When I'm not diving into the latest software, you can find me exploring nature trails, camping under the stars, or competing in online multiplayer games. My reviews are designed to be fun, engaging, and packed with all the details you need to make informed decisions.

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