Tuesday 16 December 2008

What can you Write in 128 Bytes?

In contrast to the ever increasing memory available, a number of programmers are choosing to demonstrate their coding prowess by squeezing as much as possible into an incredibly tiny program. It has become a popular pastime to code an impressive graphical display in either 128 or 256 bytes.

Before zooming off to try this for yourself, why not check out some of the competition? Five of the best are listed below, and also my own contribution.

OKOOKO by Ind. The coloured rings sway gently. Good use of colour.
InterferenceInterference by New Generation Crew. A fast moving interference pattern between two sets of rings. Supplied with source code.
CtvereckyCtverecky by RRRola. A chaotic, spiralling pattern. Only 93 bytes long. Supplied with source code.
CorkscrewedCorkscrewed by lord Kelvin - a smooth, gentle swirl slowly draws you in. Great use of colour. Supplied with source code.
Color DreamColor Dream by Digimind - a chaotic looking swarm of spheres. Impressive in motion.
Plasma WavePlasma Wave by John Metcalf - my own contribution. A display of flowing plasma. Supplied with source code.
If there's a program you think I should have included, or you want to show off your own demo, please leave a comment below.