GFA BASIC

Overview

GFA BASIC was a structured BASIC interpreter and compiler for the Atari ST (and later Amiga) that became one of the most popular programming languages on those platforms. Created by Frank Ostrowski and published by GFA Systemtechnik, it combined BASIC’s accessibility with modern features like procedures, local variables, and proper control structures.

Fast Facts

Creator: Frank Ostrowski
Publisher: GFA Systemtechnik
Released: 1986
Platforms: Atari ST, Amiga, PC
Type: Interpreter + Compiler
Popularity: Hugely successful

Key Features

Feature	Description
Procedures	Named functions with parameters
Local variables	Proper scoping
Structures	IF/ELSE/ENDIF properly
Loops	WHILE/WEND, REPEAT/UNTIL
Compiler	Optional compiled output
GEM access	Full ST GUI support

Why GFA Succeeded

The winning combination:

BASIC syntax - Easy to learn
Structured - Modern programming style
Fast - Good performance
Complete - Full system access
Compiler option - Speed when needed

Compared to Others

Feature	GFA BASIC	Standard BASIC
Procedures	Yes	GOSUB
Local vars	Yes	No
Line numbers	Optional	Required
Compiler	Yes	Rarely

ST Platform Dominance

GFA BASIC became the ST’s BASIC:

Most popular programming language
Magazine coverage extensive
Large library of programs
Active user community
Commercial software written in it

Professional Features

GFA enabled serious development:

Feature	Capability
GEM	Full GUI applications
Graphics	Complete drawing
File I/O	Proper file handling
Memory	Direct access
Inline	Assembly integration

Amiga Version

GFA BASIC also came to Amiga:

Similar feature set
Amiga-specific additions
Competed with AMOS
More general-purpose focus

Legacy

GFA BASIC proved that BASIC could be modernised without losing accessibility. Its structured approach influenced how people thought about BASIC—that the language could evolve beyond line numbers and GOTOs into something suitable for serious development.

Structured BASIC