From BASIC to Modern | Porting Classic Games to Modern Systems

Ever wondered what it was like to make games in the early days of personal computing, when you typed code straight from a book and hit “run”? Retro Code Revival is a hands-on event inspired by the classic BASIC Computer Games era, and the 1973 book 101 BASIC Computer Games by David H. Ahl, where simple ideas, clever logic, and creativity mattered more than graphics or hardware power.

In this event, we’ll take old school, text-based, and early computer games and bring them into the present. Participants will explore how these games worked, and how they can be ported to modern systems. Whether you recreate the game faithfully or give it a modern twist, the goal is to learn, experiment, and have fun while preserving the spirit of early game design.

This is a collaborative, beginner-friendly space for programmers, gamers, and curious tinkerers alike. You don’t need to be an expert, just interested in how old ideas can live again on new systems.

What You’ll Take Away:
 How to make a modern version of a classic game
 A better understanding of game logic, constraints, and design fundamentals
 New skills and inspiration going into Global Game Jam 2026

Hybrid (Hackforge HQ @ 300 Ouellete Ave, Suite 210) and Online via Zoom

RSVP for In-Person  LINK 

Register for virtual attendance via Zoom