Nothing Janky About This New Programming Language
a year ago
- #Programming Languages
- #Game Development
- #Clojure
- jank is a new dialect of Clojure aimed at gaming and general-purpose use, compatible with C++ and Lua environments.
- Developed by Jeaye Wilkerson, jank incorporates Clojure's code-as-data philosophy and functional-first approach with immutable data structures.
- Key challenges include JIT compiling native code, building a mini VM for native environments, and achieving seamless C++ interop.
- Wilkerson plans to release an alpha version in 2025, focusing on feedback and stability to integrate jank into the Clojure ecosystem.
- Funding efforts include open-source grants, with a long-term goal of making jank indispensable to secure full-time development funding.
- Community building is a priority, with contributions sought in testing, feedback, and bug reporting to ensure a stable launch.
- Performance optimization in jank leverages C++ interop and aims for smarter compiler decisions beyond JVM reliance.
- Technical trade-offs include a custom object model avoiding virtual dispatch for performance, documented on jank's blog.
- Wilkerson advises developers to pursue passion projects boldly, emphasizing the 'you only live once' mindset.