Description #
Jai is a high-performance, statically typed compiled language designed for systems and game development. Created by Jonathan Blow (developer of Braid and The Witness), Jai aims to improve programmer productivity, reduce complexity, and outperform C/C++ in both speed and ergonomics.
History #
Jai has been in development since around 2014 by Jonathan Blow and his team. While not yet publicly released, it is actively used in game engine development and performance-critical systems. The language focuses on practical improvements like better compile-time execution, cleaner syntax, and data-oriented programming features that better match modern hardware.
Hello World Code #
print("Hello, World!");Syntax shown here is based on official demos and may change upon release.
How to Run #
Option 1: Online
No official public compiler or online demo is available yet.
Option 2: Local
- Jai is currently in closed alpha.
- Demos are shown via Jonathan Blow’s Twitch channel and YouTube.
- Future public release is planned but no date has been set.
Key Concepts #
- Syntax style: C-like, concise, readable
- Typing discipline: Static, strong typing with type inference
- Execution model: Compiled directly to native code
- Common use cases: Game engines, tools, low-level systems programming
- Toolchain or ecosystem: Custom compiler, low-level memory management
- Paradigms supported: Data-oriented, imperative, procedural
- Compilation details: Compiles rapidly to native code with built-in metaprogramming
- Strengths or quirks: Compile-time code execution, expressive enums, built-in introspection
- Libraries/frameworks: Custom libraries under development for game and tool creation
- Community/adoption: Growing interest among systems programmers, game devs, and language designers
Try It Online #
❌ Not available yet — public access is currently closed
Fun Facts #
Jai supports full compile-time evaluation and metaprogramming, making it possible to generate optimized data structures or code based on build-time conditions. Jonathan Blow streams its development live, and the language already powers parts of his new game engine.
