The Howdy Glossary

BASIC A+ was a variant of the BASIC programming language specifically designed for Amstrad CPC home computers, created by the team at Amstrad. This variant targeted beginners, students, and hobbyists in the 1980s who were interested in learning computer programming without dealing with the complexities of more advanced languages. Its purpose was to provide an easy-to-understand syntax to help users create simple games and applications.

BASIC A+ distinguished itself with several unique features tailored for game and application development on Amstrad CPC computers. It offered an intuitive and straightforward syntax that made it accessible to beginners, along with a specialized set of commands catering to its target audience. The user-friendly environment encouraged experimentation and learning, making it an engaging platform for those new to programming. This focus on simplicity helped foster interest in computer science among hobbyists, students, and entry-level programmers.

In comparison to competitors like Sinclair BASIC for ZX Spectrum and Commodore BASIC for Commodore 64, BASIC A+ stood out due to its specialized design for the Amstrad CPC series. While other languages such as Pascal and Assembly provided more advanced features suitable for seasoned programmers, BASIC A+ emphasized ease of use and accessibility. This made it particularly appealing as an introductory platform where beginner programmers could explore coding concepts without being overwhelmed by complexity. Consequently, BASIC A+ became a valuable tool for fostering engagement in computer programming during its era.