The newly created programming language 'bet' compiles to native code and successfully runs a complete version of DOOM. This project, conceptualized as a joke language, showcases a unique approach to memory management through its arena allocation feature and serves as an experiment in AI-driven coding.
'bet' is a small programming language that incorporates slang keywords while featuring a serious underlying compiler. The language compiles to native code using LLVM, manages memory on its own, and can also self-host, indicating it can compile itself. This project was primarily an exercise rather than a commercial endeavor.
A standout feature of 'bet' is its memory management approach, specifically its use of arena allocation. Instead of relying on manual bookkeeping or traditional garbage collection—which can slow down game performance—'bet' allows memory allocation within defined scopes that can be dropped quickly, enhancing efficiency for game applications. This concept draws from similar strategies found in languages like Zig and Odin.
The development of 'bet' included an experimental angle to assess the effectiveness of an AI coding agent. The creator limited his role to defining project criteria and specified acceptance standards while allowing the AI to perform coding autonomously. Changes were only made if they passed defined tests and criteria, marking a significant departure from traditional coding oversight.
The ultimate test of 'bet' was its ability to fully port DOOM, with the project comprising over 56,000 lines of rewritten code from the original C source. The compiled output allows for the classic game to run in a window, demonstrating the practicality and viability of 'bet' as a functional programming language.
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The newly created programming language 'bet' compiles to native code and successfully runs a complete version of DOOM. This project, conceptualized as a joke language, showcases a unique approach to memory management through its arena allocation feature and serves as an experiment in AI-driven coding.