In the bustling world of web development, a new platform is turning heads by channeling the raw creativity of 90s computer interfaces. 90s.dev isn't just another game development tool—it's a love letter to an era when making software felt like pure magic.
The brainchild of a passionate developer who woke up at 2 AM with a vision, 90s.dev offers a unique 320x180 canvas that feels both constraining and liberating. Online commentators have been quick to draw comparisons to classic platforms like PICO-8, but this tool aims to be something different: a flexible, TypeScript-powered environment for creating games and game-making tools.
Unlike traditional game engines, 90s.dev is more of a meta-platform. Its creator describes it as an API designed to make game development tools, with an innovative approach to reactivity and layout systems. The platform isn't just about making games—it's about creating the tools that make game creation intuitive and fun.
The interface deliberately evokes the aesthetic of 90s computing, complete with gridded backgrounds and a sense of playful constraint. By limiting developers to a specific canvas size inspired by the indie game "Animal Well", the platform encourages creativity through limitation—a design philosophy reminiscent of early game development constraints.
While still in its early stages, 90s.dev has already generated excitement among developers who appreciate its combination of nostalgic design and modern web technologies. The project is very much a work in progress, with the creator openly acknowledging that it's been launched early to gather community feedback and iterate rapidly.