The MSX (MicroSoft eXtended) was a standardized home computer architecture announced by Microsoft and ASCII Corporation in 1983. It was created to unify the fragmented home computer market in the early 1980s, offering a consistent hardware and software platform. The MSX standard was widely adopted in Japan, parts of Europe, South America, and the Middle East.
- Sony: Produced some of the most iconic MSX machines, including the HitBit series.
- Panasonic: Known for its high-quality MSX2 and MSX2+ computers.
- Philips: Prominent in Europe, offering MSX systems like the VG-8020.
- Toshiba, Yamaha, Canon, Mitsubishi: These brands also contributed hardware to the MSX ecosystem.
The MSX was a powerhouse for early gaming, hosting classics like Metal Gear by Konami, which debuted on MSX. Multiple Generations: MSX evolved through several iterations: MSX, MSX2, MSX2+, and MSX Turbo R, each adding advanced capabilities.
While it struggled in the U.S., the MSX was highly successful in Japan, the Netherlands, and Brazil, becoming a cultural icon in those regions. Music and Creativity: Yamaha's MSX machines included features for music composition, aligning with the company's expertise in musical instruments. The MSX remains a beloved platform among retro computing enthusiasts, celebrated for its versatility, gaming legacy, and role in standardizing home computers.
- Online emulator: Try it online at FileHunter/MSXdev
- Software Emulator: Install an MSX emulator like openMSX or blueMSX. These provide a virtual MSX environment on modern computers.
- Real MSX Computer: If you own an actual MSX machine, you’ll need compatible storage media (e.g., floppy disks, cassette tapes, or flash cartridges like the MegaFlashROM).
- MSX BASIC: Built into the MSX firmware, BASIC is perfect for beginners.
- Cross-Development Tools: Use modern tools like SDCC or MSX-DOS compilers to write programs on your PC and run them on an MSX emulator or real hardware.
- Text Editor: Write your code in any plain text editor (e.g., Notepad++, VS Code) for cross-development.
For testing or running programs, you'll need software, games, or blank disk images compatible with MSX.
- Resources: [RetroROM] MSX2 Collection
- Online MSX BASIC documentation or retro programming books like the "MSX BASIC Handbook".
- Online Book: Working with MSX Basic By Ian Sinclair.
- Paperback Book: Modern MSX BASIC Game Development: Build retro games in MSX BASIC using modern tools By Raul Portales.
- Communities such as MSX Resource Center.
- Flash Carts: Devices like the MegaFlashROM allow you to load software and games directly onto an MSX from an SD card. External Devices: Connect modern peripherals like USB keyboards or SD card readers using adapters.
With these tools, you can dive into MSX programming, explore its rich history, and even create new games or applications today!