Short: Demo of Blitz Basic 2 Uploader: David Griffiths (dgriff@unixg.ubc.ca) Type: biz/demo This archive includes a full working version of Blitz2, the only thing you need to do after unarchiving is assign the volume name BLITZ2: to the directory or disk that the files now reside in. As this is a demonstration version, the create executable option has been disabled, however everything else is pretty much as normal. for more information about blitz2 read on: Oh, the CD gadget on the Blitz2 file requester stands for Change Directory. Click on CD before loading examples to make sure they will be able to find any necesary data files. Examples run in the wrong "directory" may crash if the runtime-errors option is not selected in the compiler options requester. * About Blitz2 -------------- Blitz2 is a BASIC programming language for your Amiga, infact it is fast becoming the BASIC programming language on the Amiga. It can be used to program any type of software, from valuable applications to entertaining arcade games. Blitz2 is a compiler, it takes BASIC code and creates very fast, compact, standalone programs. Programs that most people will think you created in machine code or C. Blitz2 is a next generation BASIC with features borrowed from PASCAL, C and others. Blitz2 has given BASIC, the friendliest programming language of all times, a new lease of life with more power than ever before. * Features ---------- Full implementation of extended BASIC (Select..Case While..wend etc.) Support for standard IFF graphics, sound and animations NewTypes similar to C Structures making Blitz2 more than just another BASIC In-line macro assembler for advanced users Linked list support for quick database type programming Standard Amiga screen, window, menu & gadget management commands Full access to the internal Amiga libraries and structures Power-Windows type user interface generator Extended Workbench 2.0/3.0 support including AGA palette control Super fast Blitz-mode operation which "cleanly" takes over the Amiga OS 6 different Blitting commands for ultra fast, smooth graphics Extensive display control for smooth scrolling, dual playfield etc. Produces 100% machine code (fast and compact) programs * What you get -------------- Blitz2 ships with 2 manuals. The reference manual is a large 320 page A4 book detailing the Blitz2 command set with example code for most of the 300+ commands and functions. The User Guide is a smaller book containing a step by step guide to getting started in Blitz2 as well as indepth discussions and tutorials introducing the many facets of programming in Blitz2 including many type in programs. The disks contain not only the Blitz2 compiler program and editor but heaps of examples, utilities, games and extra documentation. Also included with Blitz2 is a free issue of the BlitzUser magazine. * Blitz User Magazine --------------------- Blitz User is currently a quarterly publication that includes both a printed magazine and disk. Each issue is jam packed with upgrades, bug fixes, new commands, tutorials etc. As Blitz2 is continually being expanded both in versatility and ease of use, a subscription to Blitz User Magazine will keep you up to date with the fastest growing language on the Amiga. Here's a list of updates from the first 4 issues of Blitz User Magazine Issue 1: Tutorials on using Intuitools, ShapesMaker and the MapEditor as well as serial port and speech control. Also listing for the BuzzBar game. Issue 2: Includes new commands for DPaint anims, adding Arexx ports to your Blitz2 programs, octamed support as well as heaps of program listings etc. Issue 3: Ted is given a major revamp and a powerful runtime debugger is added to Blitz2. Issue 4: Cycling gadgets, radio buttons, AGA screens, polygon commands and heaps of other new goodies. * What the Amiga Magazines say: ------------------------------- CU AMIGA Giving Blitz2 an overall 88%, CU Amiga summed up Blitz2 with the following conclusion: If you want to know exactly what makes the Amiga tick without having to buy 15 manuals and learn assembler and C there is no better way. You can write whatever sort of program you want, be it a demo, a game, or a piece of applications software. The only drawbacks are those of the Amiga and the BASIC language itself. If you want a program to do something bad enough, you'll find a way with Blitz BASIC. It's ideal for beginneres and experts alike and whats more it produces true Amiga software. Get it! EASE OF USE: 81% VALUE FOR MONEY: 82% (PRICE WAS TBA!) DOCUMENTATION: 94% FLEXIBILITY: 96% AMIGA COMPUTING Paul Overaa reviewed Blitz2 in July 1993's Amiga Computing, and came up with the following comments: blisteringly fast and offers some stunning Amiga-orientated graphics Ted (Blitz2's Editor) is a fast, reliable editor even novice programmers are going to be able to produce a lot of clever effects very easily indeed more experienced programmers will find that Blitz2 offers stunning possibilities EASE OF USE: 8 IMPLEMENTATION: 9 VALUE FOR MONEY: 8 OVERALL: 8 For more information about Blitz2 --------------------------------- In NewZealand contact Acid Software phone or fax 09-358-1658 In the U.S.A. contact David Maziarka by voice at (608) 257 9057 by BBS 6pm to 6am at the same In the U.K. contact Benoit Varasse 0227 763 539 In Germany contact Solaris Computers in Koln In Australia contact Computer Discounts 02-281-7411