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Function fact(n:Int) As Int
If n = 0 Then Return 1
Return n * fact(n-1)
End Function
Print fact(5)Coding works best on desktop or with an external keyboard.
Factorial Calculator - Blitzmax Typing CST Test
Factorial Calculator — Blitzmax Code
Calculates factorial of a number recursively.
Function fact(n:Int) As Int
If n = 0 Then Return 1
Return n * fact(n-1)
End Function
Print fact(5)Blitzmax Language Guide
BlitzMax is a high-level, procedural programming language designed for game development and multimedia applications. It provides a simple syntax, cross-platform capabilities, and built-in support for graphics, sound, and input handling.
Primary Use Cases
- ▸2D and 3D game development
- ▸Multimedia applications
- ▸Rapid prototyping for interactive software
- ▸Cross-platform hobbyist games
- ▸Educational programming for game design
Notable Features
- ▸Simple BASIC-like syntax
- ▸Cross-platform compilation (Windows, macOS, Linux)
- ▸Built-in graphics and sound libraries
- ▸Support for OpenGL for 3D graphics
- ▸Extensible with external libraries and modules
Origin & Creator
Created by Mark Sibly in 2001.
Industrial Note
BlitzMax is mainly used for indie game development, hobbyist projects, and small cross-platform multimedia applications, especially in the early 2000s indie scene.
Quick Explain
- ▸BlitzMax is designed for rapid game and multimedia development.
- ▸It features a syntax similar to BASIC, making it beginner-friendly.
- ▸Supports 2D/3D graphics, sound, and input handling across multiple platforms.
Core Features
- ▸Procedural programming
- ▸Built-in graphics, sound, and input APIs
- ▸Modules and include system
- ▸Object-oriented features added later
- ▸Extensible with DLLs or shared libraries
Learning Path
- ▸Learn basic BlitzMax syntax
- ▸Practice graphics and input handling
- ▸Implement simple 2D games
- ▸Explore multimedia and OpenGL integration
- ▸Develop cross-platform prototypes
Practical Examples
- ▸2D platformer game
- ▸Top-down shooter
- ▸Interactive multimedia demo
- ▸3D OpenGL graphics prototype
- ▸Educational game for teaching programming
Comparisons
- ▸Easier to learn than C++ or Java for game development
- ▸Less feature-rich than Unity, Godot, or Unreal
- ▸Faster compilation than scripting languages like Python
- ▸Cross-platform but limited in modern libraries
- ▸Focused on indie/hobbyist game development
Strengths
- ▸Rapid development with easy-to-learn syntax
- ▸Cross-platform game deployment
- ▸Built-in multimedia support
- ▸Lightweight and fast compilation
- ▸Strong community support during peak popularity
Limitations
- ▸Smaller modern community
- ▸Limited modern library ecosystem
- ▸Primarily 2D-focused; 3D support less robust
- ▸Outdated compared to newer game engines
- ▸Lacks advanced tooling like modern IDEs or engines
When NOT to Use
- ▸Enterprise applications
- ▸Modern AAA game development
- ▸Mobile-first projects
- ▸Web-based applications
- ▸Large-scale cross-platform commercial software
Cheat Sheet
- ▸Local x:Int = 10 - variable declaration
- ▸Function MyFunc:Int() - function declaration
- ▸Graphics 2DSetup() - initialize 2D graphics
- ▸While Not KeyHit() - game loop
- ▸Use MyModule - include module
FAQ
- ▸Is BlitzMax still used?
- ▸Yes, mainly by hobbyists and retro game developers.
- ▸Can BlitzMax handle 3D games?
- ▸Yes, via OpenGL integration.
- ▸Is BlitzMax beginner-friendly?
- ▸Yes, with simple BASIC-like syntax.
- ▸Why choose BlitzMax today?
- ▸For lightweight, cross-platform indie game development.
30-Day Skill Plan
- ▸Week 1: Basic syntax, variables, functions
- ▸Week 2: 2D graphics and input
- ▸Week 3: Sound and music integration
- ▸Week 4: OpenGL 3D graphics
- ▸Week 5: Complete a small game project
Final Summary
- ▸BlitzMax is a high-level language for 2D/3D game and multimedia development.
- ▸Offers cross-platform compilation and built-in graphics/sound APIs.
- ▸Ideal for hobbyists, indie developers, and educational projects.
- ▸Easy to learn and quick for prototyping interactive applications.
Project Structure
- ▸src/ - source code
- ▸assets/ - images, sounds, and other media
- ▸lib/ - external libraries
- ▸bin/ - compiled executables
- ▸docs/ - project documentation
Monetization
- ▸Indie game sales
- ▸Educational software
- ▸Small multimedia apps
- ▸Hobbyist projects and prototypes
- ▸Game jams and contests
Productivity Tips
- ▸Use modules for reusability
- ▸Test cross-platform early
- ▸Profile game loop and graphics
- ▸Manage assets efficiently
- ▸Keep code simple and readable
Basic Concepts
- ▸Variables, constants, and basic types
- ▸Procedures and functions
- ▸Modules and code reuse
- ▸Graphics, sound, and input handling
- ▸Optional object-oriented constructs
Official Docs
- ▸BlitzMax Official Documentation
- ▸BlitzMax Community Wiki
- ▸Mark Sibly’s BlitzMax Resources