The MSXdev organization proudly announces the launch of MSXdev26, marking the 22nd edition of the long‑running MSX game development contest. After the record‑breaking momentum of recent years, the compo is returning to its roots by focusing on MSX1 again. Join the adventure.
Over the years, the annual game compo MSXdev has explored many formats: strict Classic editions, full Freestyle editions, hybrid rules, and everything in between. For MSXdev26, the competition is accepting games that run on MSX1 machines with 16KB of RAM, and unlimited ROM size. This “Classic+” approach keeps the spirit of the original MSXdev alive, celebrating the creativity and technical mastery of developers working within the iconic MSX1 environment, while removing the ROM ceiling that once constrained ambitious ideas.
Pure MSX1 without hardware extensions. If you can dream it, and it runs on a standard MSX1 with 16KB RAM, it’s fair game.
With this, the compo aims to preserve the charm and challenge of developing for the original MSX generation but also encourage bigger, bolder, more elaborate games thanks to unlimited ROM size. It is the best of both worlds; classic constraints where they matter, freedom where it fuels innovation.
MSXdev has always been about passion, perseverance, and pixel‑perfect craftsmanship. From tiny 8KB wonders to sprawling mega ROM adventures, the contest has showcased the very best of what the MSX community can do. And every year new talent joins seasoned veterans to keep the platform alive and thriving. MSXdev26 continues that tradition by inviting developers from around the world to sharpen their Z80 skills, push the VDP to its limits, oil the PSG channels, and surprise us all once again.
The MSXdev stage is open from Monday Sep 14, 2026, until Sunday March 14, 2027. You will find further information regarding MSXdev26 on this dedicated page. We will update it during run time, so mark it as favourite in your browser.
Let the coding begin and may your sprites never flicker.
Oh, and by the way, the next iteration, that is MSXdev27, will be full free-style again 😉
