Introduction

In the ever-evolving landscape of computer science and software development, programming languages play a pivotal role in shaping how developers create and interact with technology. While popular programming languages like Python, Java, and JavaScript dominate the scene, there exists a fascinating realm of lesser-known and unused programming languages that have faded into obscurity. In this article, we delve into the depths of programming history to shed light on some of these forgotten languages and explore the reasons behind their obscurity.

1 Befunge: The Esoteric Maze

Befunge, introduced in 1993, takes the concept of unconventional programming languages to a whole new level. Designed as a two-dimensional esoteric programming language, Befunge challenges developers with its unique control flow and memory manipulation. Instead of linear execution, Befunge code resembles a grid-like maze, with the instruction pointer bouncing off walls and executing commands in unpredictable ways. Despite its quirkiness, Befunge remains largely unused due to its steep learning curve and lack of practical applications.

Hello, World example:

 >              v
 v"Hello World!"<
 >:v
 ^,_@

2 INTERCAL: The Antithesis of Readability

INTERCAL, short for "Compiler Language With No Pronounceable Acronym," lives up to its name as a deliberately obtuse and complex language created in 1972. Developed as a parody of programming languages, INTERCAL is known for its unintuitive syntax and nonsensical constructs. It includes features like "COME FROM" statements, which contrast starkly with traditional programming logic. While INTERCAL serves as a humorous commentary on programming languages, its lack of utility and readability ensures its place in the realm of programming curiosities.

Hello, World example:

DO ,1 <- #13
PLEASE DO ,1 SUB #1 <- #238
DO ,1 SUB #2 <- #108
DO ,1 SUB #3 <- #112
DO ,1 SUB #4 <- #0
DO ,1 SUB #5 <- #64
DO ,1 SUB #6 <- #194
DO ,1 SUB #7 <- #48
PLEASE DO ,1 SUB #8 <- #22
DO ,1 SUB #9 <- #248
DO ,1 SUB #10 <- #168
DO ,1 SUB #11 <- #24
DO ,1 SUB #12 <- #16
DO ,1 SUB #13 <- #162
PLEASE READ OUT ,1
PLEASE GIVE UP

3 Malbolge: The Infamous Enigma

Dubbed as one of the most difficult programming languages to comprehend, Malbolge is a language that was intentionally designed to be nearly impossible to program in. Introduced in 1998, this esoteric language employs a convoluted execution model and cryptographic principles to add layers of complexity that baffle even experienced developers. Malbolge's intricate design and lack of practical use have relegated it to a mere enigma, intriguing those who dare to explore its intricacies.

Hello World Example:

(=<`:9876Z4321UT.-Q+*)M'&%$H"!~}|Bzy?=|{z]KwZY44Eq0/{mlk**
hKs_dG5[m_BA{?-Y;;Vb'rR5431M}/.zHGwEDCBA@98\6543W10/

4 Whitespace: Programming in the Void

Whitespace, unveiled in 2003, takes the concept of minimalism to an extreme by using only whitespace characters for its syntax. This means that the actual code is composed entirely of spaces, tabs, and line breaks, while all other characters are ignored. While Whitespace is a unique experiment in coding aesthetics, its practicality is severely limited due to its lack of readability and accessibility.

Hello World example:

S S S T S S T   S S S L:Push_+1001000=72='H'_onto_the_stack
T   L
S S :Output_'H';_S S S T    T   S S T   S T L:Push_+1100101=101='e'_onto_the_stack
T   L
S S :Output_'e';_S S S T    T   S T T   S S L:+1101100=108='l'
T   L
S S S S S T T   S T T   S S L:+1101100=108='l'
T   L
S S S S S T T   S T T   T   T   L:+1101111=111='o'
T   L
S S S S S T S T T   S S L:+101100=44=','
T   L
S S S S S T S S S S S L:+100000=32=Space
T   L
S S S S S T T   T   S T T   T   L:+1110111=119='w'
T   L
S S S S S T T   S T T   T   T   L:+1101111=111='o'
T   L
S S S S S T T   T   S S T   S L:+1110010=114='r'
T   L
S S S S S T T   S T T   S S L:+1101100=108='l'
T   L
S S S S S T T   S S T   S S L=+1100100=100='d'
T   L
S S S S S T S S S S T   L:+100001=33='!'
T   L
S S :Output_'!';_L
L
L:End_the_program

5 Piet: Artistic Programming

Piet, introduced in 2005, merges the worlds of programming and abstract art. In this visually inspired language, programs are represented as abstract images, and the control flow is determined by the colors and shapes within these images. Developers "paint" programs using a specific set of rules, creating intricate and colorful compositions that execute code. Despite its innovative approach to coding, Piet's inherent complexity and visual nature have hindered its adoption as a mainstream programming tool.

Hello world example:

Conclusion

The world of programming languages is a vast and diverse one, encompassing both widely-used powerhouses and obscure, forgotten curiosities. Languages like Befunge, INTERCAL, Malbolge, Whitespace, and Piet represent the eccentric and experimental side of programming, challenging the conventional notions of syntax, readability, and utility. While these languages may never gain mainstream popularity, they serve as reminders of the endless creativity and exploration that define the field of computer science. As developers continue to push boundaries and invent new ways of expressing ideas through code, it's important to remember these hidden gems that contribute to the rich tapestry of programming history.

(AI assisted)

Links of Reference:
https://esolangs.org/wiki/Befunge
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/INTERCAL
https://pt.wikipedia.org/wiki/Malbolge
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Whitespace_(programming_language)
https://retas.de/thomas/computer/programs/useless/piet/explain.html