Techniques are provided for performing joint equalization and decoding of multidimensional codes transmitted over multiple symbol durations. A reduced state sequence estimation (RSSE) decoder is provided for a multidimensional code. A multidimensional code symbol comprises a number of symbol components of lower dimensionality. The RSSE decodes comprises at least one branch metric unit that calculates branch metrics for a received signal based on intersymbol interference and intrasymbol interference estimates, the at least one branch metric unit compensating for intrasymbol interference caused by symbol components within a current multidimensional code symbol; and a decision feedback unit that processes survivor symbols to calculate the intersymbol interference estimates for different code states of the multidimensional code and channels used to transmit the multidimensional code.