Goboscript is a new text-based programming language that compiles to Scratch 3.0, making it easier for experienced programmers to create Scratch projects. It offers a more familiar syntax compared to Scratch's visual block-based system, including functions, classes, and variables. This allows for more complex projects to be developed in Scratch, potentially bridging the gap for programmers transitioning to visual programming or wanting to create more intricate Scratch applications. The project is open-source and available on GitHub.
A new programming language called Goboscript has been introduced to the world. This text-based language offers a more traditional coding experience compared to the visual, drag-and-drop interface of Scratch, the popular educational programming platform. However, Goboscript distinguishes itself by compiling directly into Scratch projects. This means developers can write code using the familiar structures of a text-based language, leveraging features like variables, functions, and loops, but ultimately generate output compatible with the Scratch environment. This offers a potential bridge for users transitioning from block-based coding to text-based coding, allowing them to utilize their Scratch knowledge and existing projects while learning more conventional programming paradigms. Goboscript aims to provide a more convenient and perhaps more powerful way to create complex Scratch projects, potentially streamlining the development process for experienced Scratch users while simultaneously providing a gentler entry point for those accustomed to text-based languages. The project is open-source and available on GitHub, inviting community contribution and further development of the language. Essentially, Goboscript seeks to combine the accessibility and visual nature of Scratch with the efficiency and control offered by text-based programming.
Summary of Comments ( 47 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=44026799
HN users generally expressed curiosity about Goboscript's purpose and target audience. Some questioned its practical value over directly using Scratch, particularly given Scratch's visual nature and target demographic. Others wondered about specific features like debugging and the handling of Scratch's inherent concurrency. A few commenters saw potential use cases, such as educational tools or a bridge for programmers transitioning to visual languages. The overall sentiment seemed to be polite interest mixed with skepticism about the language's niche.
The Hacker News post about Goboscript, a text-based programming language that compiles to Scratch, generated a moderate amount of discussion with 17 comments. Several commenters expressed interest and appreciation for the project.
A recurring theme was the potential educational value of Goboscript. Some saw it as a good stepping stone for young programmers to transition from visual block-based coding in Scratch to text-based languages. One commenter specifically mentioned its potential for teaching programming concepts to children who might be intimidated by traditional text-based languages. Another user highlighted the possibility of using Goboscript to introduce textual programming in a familiar Scratch environment.
Several comments focused on the technical aspects of Goboscript. One commenter asked about the handling of lists and custom blocks, showing interest in the language's capabilities beyond basic functionality. The creator responded, explaining how lists are implemented and that custom blocks are not yet supported but are planned for the future. This exchange provided insight into the current state and future development plans of the project. Another commenter asked about the reasoning behind creating a new language instead of leveraging existing transpilers, prompting a discussion about the specific goals and target audience of Goboscript. The author clarified their aim to provide a more simplified and accessible experience compared to existing tools.
A few commenters offered suggestions and feedback. One proposed an alternate approach involving translating Scratch projects to text-based code, essentially reversing the functionality of Goboscript. This sparked a brief discussion about the benefits and drawbacks of both approaches. Another commenter pointed out the potential for the tool to be used to obfuscate Scratch projects, suggesting a less conventional use case.
While there wasn't a single overwhelmingly compelling comment, the discussion offered a balanced mix of positive feedback, technical inquiries, and constructive suggestions, indicating genuine interest in the project and its potential applications.