Xiphod has revealed a striking new project for the Commander X16, built entirely in BASIC. The work-in-progress demo features a fresh vector API, used to showcase CALLISTAR’s 3D maze. By combining scaled vector objects with multi-colored sub-elements, the demo shows surprising visual depth for a BASIC program.
The biggest strength of this demo is portability. Unlike many X16 projects, it avoids PEEKs and POKEs. As a result, the code can be moved easily to other systems. This choice makes the project attractive for developers who prefer straightforward, transferable code.
The vector API highlights scaling, rotation, and rendering. These features give the CALLISTAR maze more technical appeal while staying inside BASIC’s limits. The inclusion of multi-colored elements also adds variety, showing that BASIC can still deliver engaging visuals.
Transitioning from simple examples to a maze environment, the demo highlights both the potential and the challenges of this approach. The results prove that even an interpreted language can manage complex visuals. For anyone coding on the Commander X16, this experiment is a clear inspiration.
Xiphod has also shared the project on the Commander X16 forum. This move encourages discussion and offers practical examples for others to test. Developers can study the code and apply similar methods to their own projects. In this way, the demo is more than a showcase. It becomes a teaching tool for the community.
The video offers a direct look at the current progress. It shows the strengths of the vector API while leaving room for refinement. Viewers can see how the 3D maze functions, where the visuals shine, and where performance still needs improvement.
This Commander X16 vector demo in BASIC highlights what can be achieved without advanced tricks. It invites curiosity, encourages experimentation, and keeps the spirit of BASIC alive. Watching the demo is the best way to appreciate how these techniques work in practice.
