vim-startify is a plugin that replaces or enhances Vim’s default blank start screen (when Vim is launched without files) with a more structured, usable homepage. On starting Vim, it presents a menu showing recently edited files, bookmarked files or sessions, and optionally saved sessions that can be resumed. The menu is navigable, and you can choose entries either by selecting with cursor keys or simply typing the bracketed number next to the item. Additionally, the plugin supports configuring custom headers/footers (for example with ASCII art or useful information) and even opening multiple files at once via the menu. This startup experience enhances productivity by giving immediate access to recent work or commonly edited files, reducing the need to type paths manually. It also supports sessions, so you can quickly restore your editing environment (splits, buffers) for a project.
Features
- Displays a start screen on Vim launch with recent files, bookmarks and sessions
- Allows definition of custom headers or footers (e.g., ASCII art, info)
- Provides a quick-menu UI where items can be opened by number or selection
- Supports persistent sessions so you can restore previous layout/buffers
- Configurable lists: recent files, sessions, bookmarks, commands
- Integrates seamlessly without heavy overhead or slowing Vim startup