Facts for Kids

The MSX is a special type of personal computer that was created in the early 1980s! 🖥

️ It was made to help people in Japan and around the world enjoy video games, work, and learn. The MSX computers are known for their unique style and are loved by many. The name "MSX" stands for "Microsoft Extended," because it used Microsoft's technology. The first MSX computer was launched in 1983, and soon many companies like Sony and Toshiba made their own MSX models! These computers made it easier to play games and helped change the way we use technology!

The story of MSX began in 1983 when a Japanese company called Microsoft decided to create a new kind of personal computer. 💡

The first MSX computer was released in Japan, and it quickly became popular! In just a few years, many other companies joined in and made their own MSX models. By the late 1980s, MSX computers were selling like hotcakes! 🎉

They became well-known in countries like Brazil, Europe, and even parts of Asia. Famous games like "Metal Gear" and "Castlevania" were made for MSX, making it a part of gaming history!

There were several exciting MSX models that kids loved! 🎉

One popular model was the MSX2, known for its colorful graphics. Another was the Yamaha CX5M, famous for being not just a computer but a music synthesizer too! 🎶

There was also the Spectravideo SV-318, which was special for its unique design. These models often came in cool colors and had impressive features that made them fun to use. Each one played a part in making the MSX computers remarkable and memorable!

MSX computers had a wide range of software and, most importantly, lots of fun games! 🎮

Some popular games for MSX include "Metal Gear," created by Hideo Kojima in 1987, and "Frogger," where you guide a frog across a busy road! 🐸

There were also educational programs that helped kids learn math and reading. Many games were created by talented programmers from Japan, and later even from other countries contributed to the MSX library. The games were stored on cartridges or floppy disks, making them easy to swap and play!

The MSX computers have left a big mark on video game history! 🕹

️ Many famous game developers got their start making games for MSX. For example, "Metal Gear" became a super famous game series that fans still love today. 🎖

️ By inspiring a whole generation, MSX changed how games were developed and played. Not only did it influence gaming in Japan, but it also inspired many other gaming systems that came later. Today, the games and creativity from MSX still echo in the gaming world!

MSX computers came with some cool features! They usually had a Z80 CPU, which is a tiny brain that helps the computer think. 🧠

Most MSX models also had 64 KB of RAM, which is like their "memory." They used a special keyboard and could connect to a TV to show games and programs. 📺

The main MSX machines supported disk drives and cartridges too, making it easy to play games. MSX computers were also very adaptable; different models had different colors and designs to fit everyone's style!

The MSX community is full of passionate fans who love MSX computers and games! 🥳

People from all around the world come together to share their experiences and create new games. Online groups and websites have been set up to help fans connect, share tips, and even make new software! Some MGX fans organize events, like tournaments where they play their favorite games. 🎉

The community is diverse, with players from Japan, Europe, and beyond, all celebrating the amazing world of MSX!

The MSX standard made it easy for computers to work together! 🌐

Different companies made various versions of MSX, like MSX1, MSX2, and MSX2+, each with better features! For example, MSX2 had improved graphics and sound, which made games look and sound cooler! 🎶

Some newer models even had built-in floppy disk drives for more fun! Different countries also made unique variants, and while they looked different, they all shared the same MSX system, allowing games and software to be used on various models.

Even today, MSX computers are still loved! 🌟

Many people enjoy playing MSX games using emulators. An emulator is like a magic program that lets you play old games on modern computers! 🎮

Some websites have collections of MSX games that you can play online for free! This helps to keep the MSX spirit alive. Plus, new homebrew games are being created by dedicated fans, which is fantastic! So even newer generations can see what made MSX special!