'Logical, beautiful, perfect' WordStar rises again
WordStar, a 1980s word processing software, is revived by author Robert Sawyer, offering a minimalist, distraction-free writing experience accessible via DOS emulators, appealing to some writers despite modern alternatives.
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WordStar, a word processing software that gained popularity in the 1980s, is experiencing a revival thanks to efforts by Hugo Award-winning author Robert Sawyer. Originally developed by MicroPro International, WordStar was the first commercially successful word processor for personal computers, allowing users to type faster without the need for a mouse or complex commands. Sawyer has created an archive of WordStar for DOS 7.0, making it accessible for modern users through DOS emulators like DOSBox. This revival highlights the software's simplicity and efficiency, appealing particularly to touch typists. Despite the dominance of modern word processors like Microsoft Word, some writers, including George R.R. Martin, continue to prefer WordStar for its distraction-free interface and straightforward functionality. While it may not suit everyone, WordStar remains a viable option for those seeking a minimalist writing experience.
- WordStar is making a comeback due to efforts by author Robert Sawyer.
- The software allows for faster typing without the need for a mouse.
- It is accessible on modern systems through DOS emulators.
- Some writers prefer WordStar for its simplicity and distraction-free interface.
- WordStar remains relevant despite the prevalence of modern word processors.
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6 commentsI wonder if someone could leak the source code. Googling the original developers listed on the Wikipedia page (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/WordStar) turns up some LinkedIn profiles (which I did not log in to check). I think I've read several stories of old source code getting recovered from a 3.5 floppy someone had in a garage somewhere. There's even a video where the LGR guy scavenged an old PC from a defunct warehouse-like computer repair shop and was able to pull source code from some old game from Sierra Online from it (it was a development machine, and they brought it in for repair in the 80s and never claimed it).
Some more discussion: https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=41169195
For a comparable but better experience, choose any text editor — emacs, for example — and groff. You get the control-keys of your choice (wordstar should you so choose) and world class typesetting capable of anything, including books.
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WordStar – A Writer's Word Processor (1990)
Renowned sci-fi writer Robert J. Sawyer praises WordStar, a 1970s word processor, for its efficient touch typist interface, logical commands, and creative workflow enhancements. He contrasts its unique features favorably against modern word processors.
Complete WordStar 7.0 Archive
Robert J. Sawyer has created an online archive of WordStar 7.0, including the program, manuals, and resources, aimed at preserving its legacy and assisting writers who prefer its features.
WordStar 7, the last ever DOS version, is re-released for free
WordStar 7, the final DOS version of the word processor, has been re-released for free by Robert J. Sawyer, including emulators and documentation, appealing to contemporary users and writers.
Sci-fi writer and WordStar lover re-releases the cult DOS app for free
Robert J. Sawyer has re-released WordStar 7 as free abandonware, including manuals and utilities for modern use, highlighting its enduring appeal among writers despite its complex ownership history.
Complete WordStar 7.0 Archive
Robert J. Sawyer has created an online archive for WordStar 7.0, including over 3,600 files and installation packages for modern systems, preserving its legacy for current and future writers.