Neko is a lightweight, high-level virtual machine and programming language, created by Nicolas Cannasse in 2005. Initially developed as a target language for Haxe, Neko has since evolved into a versatile tool for scripting, rapid prototyping, and embedding within other applications. It was designed to be simple and efficient, making it ideal for small programs or extensions where more extensive languages like C or Java might be overkill.
Neko operates by compiling source code into Neko bytecode, which can then be executed on the Neko virtual machine (VM). This bytecode can be easily generated from different languages, and the VM itself is compact, fast, and cross-platform, running on Windows, macOS, and Linux.
Neko's design allows it to serve as a bridge between higher-level languages and native applications. One of its key features is its ability to embed the Neko VM inside larger applications, enabling developers to add scripting capabilities or extend functionality without needing a full-fledged programming environment. In this way, Neko can be thought of as both a standalone language and a tool for enhancing other software.
The Neko language supports typical programming constructs such as variables, functions, loops, and conditionals. It also provides dynamic typing, making it easy to write flexible, fast code without having to declare types explicitly. Despite its simplicity, Neko is capable of handling complex tasks and can integrate well with other languages and libraries, particularly through its use within the Haxe ecosystem.
Here’s a simple example of a Neko program:
var name = "World";
trace("Hello, " + name);This basic script demonstrates Neko's dynamic typing and straightforward syntax, showing how easy it is to get started with the language. The trace function outputs to the console, much like a print function in other languages.
Neko is used today primarily in conjunction with Haxe, where it serves as an intermediate platform to compile Haxe code into Neko bytecode. However, it remains a useful standalone tool for scripting and lightweight application development. Its small footprint and flexibility make it a good choice for developers looking to add scripting capabilities to their programs or quickly prototype new features.
In summary, Neko is a compact, flexible virtual machine and language that provides a powerful yet easy-to-use environment for scripting, embedding, and extending applications. Its tight integration with Haxe and broad cross-platform support have helped it find a niche among developers needing a lightweight, efficient tool for rapid development and extension.