Ershov Computer vs NandGame
NandGame is a well-known browser project where an 8-bit computer is built from a NAND gate. Ershov Computer solves the same task but goes further: a structured course, circuit verification, Verilog and FPGA. Let's compare honestly, without belittling either project.
Comparison table
| Criterion | NandGame | Ershov Computer |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Free | Free |
| Platform | Browser | Browser |
| Interface language | English | English and Russian |
| Starting point | A single universal NAND gate | The classic trio AND, OR, NOT |
| Learning structure | A sequence of puzzles | 47 levels verified against truth tables |
| Circuit verification | Automatic on input sets | Truth-table checks with error highlighting |
| Datasheets and theory | Minimal | 37 datasheets and 33 articles, built-in |
| AI tutor | — | Yes (circuit analysis, hints) |
| Assembler | Yes | Yes, with a debug panel |
| Verilog / HDL | — | Yes (levels 30–43) |
| FPGA export | — | Yes (Tang Nano 9K, level 47) |
| School methodology | — | Course program and lesson plans |
| Sandbox | — | Yes (free-form construction) |
When to choose NandGame
NandGame is a light, elegant project, a great way to start exploring logic: minimal interface, and in a couple of evenings you can go from NAND to a simple processor. If you want a quick experiment without registration or theory — it is an excellent choice.
When to choose Ershov Computer
When you want to systematically study circuitry and architecture: with verification of every circuit, theory and datasheets at hand, and an AI tutor that explains your specific circuit. And at the end — structural Verilog and export of your project to a physical FPGA board. The project is also school-ready: see the 47-level course program.
Comparisons with other projects
- Ershov Computer vs Turing Complete (game) — comparison with the commercial Steam game.
- Ershov Computer vs Nand2Tetris — comparison with Shimon Schocken's university course.
Try it
Nothing beats personal experience: open the logic circuit simulator and complete the first levels for free — no install, no registration.