Development started and first release in 2026
OpenDBC
Recreating DarkBASIC Classic and Professional with a modern compiler, Studio and engine.
- Contribution
- Design and development
- Platforms
- Windows, Linux, macOS, Android, iOS, Meta Quest
- Project
- Released in 2026, development ongoing
OpenDBC is a modern game engine compatible with the DarkBASIC Classic and DarkBASIC Professional languages. Started and released in 2026, it brings together the tools needed to write BASIC code, build levels and run games across multiple platforms.
From program to rendering
BASIC code is compiled to bytecode, then executed by a virtual machine. Studio combines a code editor and a 3D level editor. A command-line interface complements the environment, letting users run programs or check that they compile.
The core is developed in C++20 with SDL3 and SDL_GPU. Assimp handles model loading, ENet provides networking, and OpenXR supports virtual reality.
Preserving workflows, modernising tools
DarkBASIC Professional is the main language used in the tools. It is extended to support mobile devices, VR and new commands, while retaining the goal of compatibility with existing programs.
OpenDBC runs on Windows, Linux, macOS, Android, iOS and Meta Quest. The work spans the whole creation process, from language to rendering, with a shared environment for preparing and running a project.
The code, documentation and roadmap are public. Development continues to expand the tools and compatibility.
In action