MSX Standard

Coming Soon!

The MSX standard will be added to Code Like It’s 198x in a future update. This international home computer standard featured:

• Z80 Assembly Programming - Learn on the first truly international standard
• Standardised Architecture - Understand how hardware standards work
• International Perspective - Explore computing culture beyond the UK/US
• Advanced Graphics - Progressive enhancement through MSX2 and MSX2+

MSX represented an ambitious attempt to create a universal home computer standard, successfully implemented by dozens of manufacturers worldwide.

Why MSX Matters

The MSX standard was revolutionary - instead of each manufacturer creating incompatible computers, MSX established a common architecture that ensured software compatibility across different brands. This concept influenced later standards and demonstrated how international cooperation could benefit the entire computing industry.

MSX was particularly successful in Japan, where it became the dominant home computer platform and spawned legendary game franchises including Metal Gear, Gradius, and many others.

Educational Focus:

• Z80 assembly language programming
• Understanding hardware standardisation
• International computing perspectives
• Progressive system evolution (MSX → MSX2 → MSX2+)
• Advanced graphics and sprite programming

International Significance:

• First universal home computer standard
• Successful in Japan, Netherlands, Brazil, and other markets
• Demonstrated feasibility of hardware compatibility standards
• Influenced later standardisation efforts

Notable Achievements:

• Created by Microsoft and ASCII Corporation
• Adopted by 70+ manufacturers worldwide
• Spawned unique gaming culture in Japan
• Established template for hardware standards

Check back soon for comprehensive MSX programming lessons that explore the world’s first international home computer standard!