Why This Matters
The recreation of Donkey.bas in JavaScript highlights the enduring legacy of early PC gaming and programming, showcasing how foundational software can inspire modern web-based experiences. This milestone underscores the importance of preserving classic software as a cultural and educational resource for both developers and consumers in the tech industry.
Key Takeaways
- Donkey.bas was one of the first demos to showcase color graphics and sound on IBM PCs.
- The project demonstrates how classic software can be adapted for modern web platforms, bridging past and present tech innovations.
- Preserving and recreating vintage software like Donkey.bas fosters appreciation for early programming achievements and inspires future developers.
A browser port of the 1981 IBM PC classic, for its 45th birthday.
About
DONKEY.BAS shipped with early IBM PC DOS as a demo of color graphics and sound in BASICA. It was written by Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates and Neil Konzen in 1981 (version 1.10 in 1982). You only switch lanes — avoid the donkey, or BOOM.
This page recreates the original CGA gameplay in JavaScript with some liberties. Original source: DONKEY.BAS · GitHub
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