LOVE2d
LOVE2d is a game engine that enables users to create 2D games with Lua. It is purely open-source based on zlib/libpng license and can be used freely. Users can create simple games that require minimal coding, and the interface is excellent, which can help users to concentrate on developing games. Developed games can be posted at the forums. There is a discord server for LOV2d, which encourages healthy discussions among the developers.
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LOVE2d Review and Overview
Who doesn't love those 2D arcade-style games we played back in those days? These games pretty much shaped our childhood and got us acquainted with the fundamentals of using a computer. Now creating such games is straightforward, thanks to the LOVE2D game engine. Make classic and retro games and publish your works in the forums so that people can download them and play for free.
Easy to learn
The software itself is easy to get used to since it features simple controls and an environment that does not distract the users and make them feel complicated. The LOVE2d wiki has all the information you need to start creating games on your own. Once done, post your games to the forum to share the joy among the other users.
Lua programming language
LOVE2d uses the Lua programming language to create games. It is a simple programming language which is based on C but has simpler functions. The main advantages of Lua are the ease of learning, speed, and portability that it offers. The control statements and loops are implemented similar to C programming. Due to its simplicity, Lua was used for creating a lot of arcade-based games back in the day.
Open-source
It is open-source software, which means that anyone who uses the software can do it for free. They can access the source code of the software, suggest changes, and contribute to the development of the game engine. LOVE2d has a Github page for submitting issues and suggesting features that should be released with the new version.
This reiterates that it is a platform built by developers for developers. The Github pages are filled with feature implementation requests while using a particular function in LOVE2d.
Platform support
LOVE2d supports major operating systems, including Windows and macOS. It is also available for various Linux distributions in their software repository and app stores. It also has apps on Android and iOS platforms available on Play Store and App Store, respectively. Create games in the comfort of your platform – whether it is mobile or on a desktop PC.
Top LOVE2d Features
- Free and open-source
- Cross-platform support
- Active community forums
- Dedicated Discord server
- Engaging subreddit
- Liberal licensing (zlib/libpng)
- Accessible code snippets
- Comprehensive tutorials available
- Suitable for commercial projects
- Ideal for game jams
- Fast prototyping capabilities
- Friendly user support
- Game showcasing platform
- Easy to learn Lua integration
- Regular updates and improvements
- Strong GitHub repository
- Multi-device compatibility
- Extensive documentation
- Rich ecosystem of libraries
- Support for 2D graphics.
