Hi there, MSX peeps. I want to code in ASM and make programs.

Resident (43)

27-05-2019, 06:38

Hi there, MSX peeps. I really want to start coding in ASM so that I can make programs on my MSX computer. Where do I start? Do you have any books on ASM programming? I'd prefer them in English, but Arabic books are okay too.

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By hamlet

Scribe (3681)

27-05-2019, 07:07

Good place to start is a hidden page in our wiki, called "Assembler_for_Dummies_(Z80)"

By dhau

Paragon (1570)

02-07-2019, 21:30

For MSX architecture you can read The MSX Red Book.

For a simple all-in-one assembler with nice examples and documentation, try asmsx. Or you may also try using glass or sjasm.

Grauw maintains an excellent MSX assembly page.

By shram86

Expert (109)

03-07-2019, 18:43

Here's a hello world example:

https://github.com/PeterLemon/MSX/tree/master/HelloWorld

I don't recommend sjasm, especially if you use linux, because it is prone to bugs. "tniasm" is what I use.

If you want to code for MSX2, give a thorough read to the technical handbook.

It's also not a bad idea to pick up a z80 textbook or two (I'm sure there are some written in Arabic). These two are good:
Z80 Assembly Language Programming
Programming the Z80

Bear in mind MSX/2 is a bit more robust, and therefore more complex than systems like the C64 or Gameboy. If you haven't coded in assembly before, those are easier places to start.

By zPasi

Champion (499)

04-07-2019, 08:48

What kind of programs? A lot can also be done in C or even with BASIC compilers. But if you're going to make fast shooters etc you'll need some assembly anyway, sooner or later.

Have you coded in assembly before?

By Omargrafx

Resident (43)

20-08-2019, 14:17

Well, I have messed around in x86 ASM and did stuff with strings, but that's about the ceiling of what I can do, for now.

By zPasi

Champion (499)

20-08-2019, 17:30

x86 ASM is similar enough so you don't start from zero. Z80 is simpler of course, there aren't even MUL or DIV instructions. But a lot of samples and libraries exist for mathematical purposes, of course.

By Omargrafx

Resident (43)

22-08-2019, 22:26

Hmm, thanks!