Build Vectrex games
with modern tools.
Write games in VPy — a Python-like language designed for the Vectrex. Compile with a 9-phase Rust compiler. Test instantly in the built-in emulator. No hardware required.
Features
A complete toolchain for Vectrex game development.
VPy Language
Python-like syntax designed for the Vectrex. Full access to BIOS calls, clean control flow, and readable game logic — no raw assembly.
9-Phase Rust Compiler
From source to ROM in nine discrete, auditable phases — parse, unify, codegen, assemble, link. Targets single-bank 32KB or multibank ROMs.
Cycle-Accurate Emulator
JSVecX runs your ROM directly in the IDE. CPU registers, frame metrics, BIOS call monitor, and PSG audio log — no hardware needed.
Monaco Editor + LSP
The VS Code editor with a custom VPy language server. Completions, hover docs, go-to-definition, rename, inline diagnostics and quick fixes.
Real Debugger
Set breakpoints in VPy source or MC6809 assembly. Step over, step into, inspect registers, memory, and a live instruction trace.
Vector Asset Editor
Draw vector shapes visually and export them as .vec assets. Use DRAW_VECTOR() in code to render them. No coordinate math by hand.
Animation Editor
Compose multi-frame vector animations from your .vec assets. Keyframe timing, playback preview, and direct export to code.
Music Editor
Compose chiptune music for the AY-3-8910 PSG chip. Export as .vmus assets, play with PLAY_MUSIC() — auto-updated every frame.
SFX Editor
Design AYFX sound effects with ADSR envelopes, pitch sweep, noise, and arpeggio on channel C. Save as .vsfx — play with PLAY_SFX().
Native Multibank Support
Ship games bigger than 32KB with zero configuration. One META directive sets the ROM size; the compiler handles bank allocation and switching automatically.
PyPilot — AI Assistant
Built-in generative AI that understands VPy and the Vectrex hardware. Supports Anthropic, OpenAI, Gemini, Groq, DeepSeek, GitHub Models, and local Ollama.
VS Code Extension & MCP
Use Vectrex Studio from VS Code via the Model Context Protocol. Any MCP-capable AI assistant can read code, trigger builds, and inspect the emulator.