What is cobra?

Cobra is a high‑level programming language that blends the simplicity of Python with the power of static typing and .NET integration. It was created to be easy to read, safe to use, and capable of producing fast, compiled executables.

Let's break it down

  • Syntax - Looks a lot like Python: indentation matters, no need for many braces or semicolons.
  • Static typing - Variables have a type that is known at compile time, which catches many bugs early.
  • Design by contract - You can add pre‑conditions, post‑conditions, and invariants directly in the code to enforce rules.
  • Compilation - Cobra code is compiled to .NET bytecode (CIL), so it runs on any platform that supports .NET (Windows, Linux, macOS).
  • Interoperability - Because it targets .NET, you can call libraries written in C#, F#, VB.NET, etc., and vice‑versa.

Why does it matter?

Cobra aims to give beginners a gentle learning curve while still providing the safety and performance that professional developers need. Its contract features help new programmers think about correct program behavior, and the .NET backend lets them build real‑world applications without learning a whole new ecosystem.

Where is it used?

  • Small‑to‑medium desktop tools built on the .NET framework.
  • Educational settings where teaching clean code and contracts is valuable.
  • Prototyping scripts that later get compiled into fast executables.
  • Projects that need to interoperate with existing .NET libraries but want a more Python‑like syntax.

Good things about it

  • Easy‑to‑read syntax that feels familiar to Python users.
  • Strong static typing reduces runtime errors.
  • Built‑in contract system encourages robust, self‑documenting code.
  • Generates native .NET binaries, giving good performance and cross‑platform support.
  • Can reuse the vast .NET library ecosystem.

Not-so-good things

  • Very small community, so finding tutorials, examples, or help can be harder.
  • Limited third‑party packages compared to mainstream languages like Python or C#.
  • Development tools and IDE support are not as mature; you often rely on generic .NET editors.
  • The language is not actively maintained as much as larger languages, which may affect long‑term viability.