Decker: A Multimedia Platform Continuing HyperCard's Legacy
Create and share interactive documents with classic MacOS aesthetics.
1What is Decker?
Decker is a multimedia platform designed for creating interactive documents with sound, visuals, hypertext, and scripted behavior. You can try it right in your web browser. It builds on HyperCard's legacy and classic MacOS visual aesthetics while adding user-friendly improvements like deep undo history, touchscreen support, and modern keyboard navigation. The platform offers a wide range of uses, from E-Zines to adventure games.
2Creative Constraints and Aesthetics
Decker provides a nostalgic and cozy experience with its holistic 'ditherpunk' aesthetic. Ideal for various projects, from 1-bit pixel art to presentations. As a prototyping tool, it encourages a sketchy, imperfect approach. Completed projects can be saved as standalone .html documents that can be embedded in any website. It also runs natively on MacOS, Windows, BSD, and Linux.
3The Lil Scripting Language
Decker introduces a new scripting language called Lil, inspired by Lua and Q. Lil features implicit scalar-vector arithmetic and an SQL-like query language. A few lines of Lil code can achieve impressive functionality. The language is familiar and easy to learn for users with prior programming experience. It also comes with Lilt, a standalone Lil interpreter.
4Widgets and Sharing
Decker offers built-in interactive widgets for interface building and allows defining new ones. Custom widgets can be copied and pasted using the system clipboard, making them shareable anywhere text can be shared. Each project becomes a toolkit of reusable parts that can be repurposed for another project.
5Command-Line Compatibility
When built from source, Decker includes Lilt, a standalone Lil interpreter. Lilt can read, write, manipulate, and even execute Decker documents 'headlessly.' It has fewer dependencies than Decker itself and can be compiled as a cross-platform APE executable. There's even a Lil interpreter that runs on POSIX AWK.
6Privacy and Open Source
Decker contains no ads, telemetry, or intrusions on user autonomy. It's free and open-source under the MIT license. Source code is available on GitHub, along with a bug tracker. Users can share projects on Itch.io and discuss them in the community forum. Game Jam events are held every July and December.
7Community and Events
Decker users can share projects and exchange ideas on the Itch.io community forum. Annual Game Jam events in July and December provide opportunities to showcase creativity. The next event, 'Decker Fantasy Camp,' is scheduled for July 2026. These events are ideal for exploring the platform's capabilities.
8Why Decker?
Decker offers a user-friendly, flexible platform that fosters creativity. It retains HyperCard's simplicity while incorporating modern improvements. Its open-source nature and community support ensure continuous growth. Whether organizing notes or prototyping games, Decker provides the tools you need. Its free availability and cross-platform support enhance accessibility.