Eloquent JavaScript VS RayStorm

• Comprehensive Learning Resource
  Eloquent JavaScript covers a wide range of topics, from basic syntax to advanced concepts like asynchronous programming and web development. This depth makes it a valuable resource for both beginners and advanced programmers.
• Interactive Code Examples
  The book contains numerous interactive code examples that allow readers to see the effects of their code in real-time. This hands-on approach reinforces learning and helps solidify concepts.
• Free Online Access
  Eloquent JavaScript is available for free online, making it accessible to anyone with an internet connection. This allows learners from around the world to benefit from its content without financial barriers.
• Engaging Writing Style
  The author, Marijn Haverbeke, writes in an engaging and clear style, making complex topics more understandable and keeping readers interested.
• Good Balance of Theory and Practice
  The book strikes a good balance between theoretical explanations and practical exercises, allowing readers to apply what they have learned immediately.

Possible disadvantages

• Steep Learning Curve
  Some readers may find the book's progression to be rapid, especially if they are complete beginners. The book quickly moves from basic to more complex topics, which can be overwhelming.
• Lacks Visual Aids
  While the text is clear and the code examples are helpful, the book could benefit from more visual aids like diagrams and illustrations to explain complex concepts.
• Assumes Some Prior Knowledge
  Although it's aimed at beginners, the book sometimes assumes that readers have some prior programming experience, which can make it less accessible to absolute novices.
• Limited Coverage of Latest ES Features
  The book may not cover some of the latest features and best practices introduced in newer versions of JavaScript (e.g., ES2019 and beyond), meaning readers might need to supplement their learning with additional resources.
• Web Development Sections Could Be More Detailed
  While the book does touch on web development, the sections on this topic are not as in-depth as some readers might hope. Those looking to get a more thorough grounding in web development may need to consult other sources.

• Striking 3D visuals
  RayStorm (1996) was one of the first shmups to use fully polygonal 3D graphics, with dynamic camera angles, impressive lock-on laser effects and detailed boss designs that still look distinctive today.
• Innovative lock-on mechanic
  The signature lock-on laser system lets players target multiple enemies on different depth planes at once, adding strategic depth and a satisfying risk-reward layer beyond standard shooting.
• Strong soundtrack
  The techno and electronic soundtrack by Taito's Zuntata sound team is energetic and memorable, and fits the sci-fi atmosphere and fast pacing of the game.
• Replayability
  Multiple selectable ships with different weapon behaviors, score-chasing incentives, and a branching risk/reward approach to scoring encourage repeated playthroughs and mastery.
• Accessible ports and legacy
  The game has been ported to PlayStation, PC and later compilations (such as RayForce/Layer Section series collections and R-Gear/Ray series re-releases), making it available to modern players, and it is well regarded by the shmup community.

Possible disadvantages

• Short length
  The game can be completed in under 30 minutes, with only a handful of stages, so players who are not interested in score chasing may find the content thin.
• Steep difficulty
  Dense bullet patterns, tricky boss fights and limited continues on higher difficulties can be punishing for newcomers to the shoot-'em-up genre.
• Dated graphics
  Early polygonal 3D models and low-resolution textures look blocky by modern standards, particularly in the original console ports when displayed on modern screens.
• Depth perception issues
  The 3D camera and overlapping lock-on targets can make it hard to judge enemy positions and incoming bullets, sometimes causing unfair-feeling deaths.
• Availability and port quality
  Official availability varies by region and platform, and some ports lack features, have inconsistent performance, or are hard to find at reasonable prices. Also, the Taito website itself is a corporate site rather than a dedicated store or guide for the game.

No analysis of RayStorm yet.

Eloquent JavaScript A Modern Introduction to Programming 3rd Edition by Marijn Haverbeke review

More videos

No RayStorm videos yet. You could help us improve this page by suggesting one.

• My Azure Cloud Resume Challenge Journey

  If you haven’t read Eloquent JavaScript , go check it out. It’s one of my all-time favourite programming books — hands down. - Source: dev.to / about 1 year ago

• How do we learn to get good at programming

  Videos, blogs, text-based teachings, YouTube project-based learning, books, and the like are all examples of various methods and mediums of acquiring skills, especially in the software engineering industry. As I continue to navigate... - Source: dev.to / almost 2 years ago

• Ask HN: Changing my mind about JavaScript

  Seconded. I won't recommend it and no one I know has recommended it for a decade. It's hard for someone who doesn't know JS to know which parts has changed and is no longer the way to do things. https://github.com/getify/You-Dont-Know-JS... - Source: Hacker News / about 2 years ago

View more

Tracking RayStorm since Oct 2026.