Getting Started
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MatchBox brings BoxLang to environments where a JVM runtime is not the right fit: native applications, browsers, WASI hosts, serverless functions, and embedded devices. Start with the CLI, then select a target based on the capabilities your application needs.
Use MVM or the direct macOS/Linux or Windows installer, or download a full CLI executable or Docker image. See installation and releases and downloads.
Start with a script or the interactive REPL. The CLI and standalone programs do not require Java.
Use the native CLI for local execution, then package for native, browser WebAssembly (--target js), WASI, or ESP32 as appropriate.
Get the MatchBox CLI for your operating system and verify it works.
Write a small BoxLang program, run it, and package a native executable.
Set up a coding agent with the project context and validation loop it needs.
Understand how AI features in an application differ from AI-assisted development.
Choose your path
- Native application: Start with native builds.
- Browser module: Read JavaScript and WebAssembly.
- WASI host or container: Explore experimental WASI deployment.
- Embedded device: Follow the ESP32 guide.
- Web application: Explore the webroot server or application server.
MatchBox and the BoxLang JVM runtime share language concepts, but they are distinct runtimes. Check compatibility and target differences before relying on JVM libraries or host-specific APIs.