Ren'Py

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Ren'Py Reviews
We have 1 review for Ren'Py. The average overall ratings is 4.0 / 5 stars.

My Opinion on Ren'Py
written by grex on 2018-03-08 08:05:01
Overall
Ease of Use
Customer Service
Value For Money

Overall Opinion: While it wouldn't appeal to those who don't already have a background in the
Python programming language, developers who want to be able to put out software-mediated
stories that can run on a multitude of devices should certainly look at Ren'Py. Visual novels are a
type of video game particularly popular in Japan that generally involve animé-style character
illustrators coupled with branching plots. Many of these are dating simulators, which feature a
character who tries to win the heart of one of several choices they're given in game.
Nevertheless, the Ren'Py engine doesn't hold developers down to this formula. Those who
already have art that represents a variety of emotions can import it into the development studio to
generate plots based around any script. Since the game engine takes care of opcode compilation,
developers won't have to worry about making separate visual novel distributions for each type of
system software that gamers might have. Developers can also provide multiple language
packages, which should aid those working on simulations they'd prefer to offer to an
international consumer base. While a few small examples do come with the package, developers
will have to create all their own art in most cases if they wanted to craft a complete visual novel.
Those who find themselves stuck might want to consult the extensive documentation, which is
available in both English and Japanese. Since the plot scripts for games feature a sort of
screenplay-like syntax, it might be easy for those who don't code to still write the script for
another developer. This should make it simple for those porting a manga series to a visual novel
to recycle as many assets as possible. The Ren'Py engine attaches itself to the finished game,
which means developers won't have to author any subroutines for saving games or rolling back
to previous points in the story. There's also support for DLC packages compiled into the studio
itself.

Pros: Supports both visual novels with branching stories and kinetic novels with static ones
Runs on a wide variety of devices Streamlines development to make game programs quickly
Works with the Ubuntu, Debian, Gentoo and Arch Linux package managers

Cons: Requires knowledge of Python to use May be difficult for some users to correctly
configure Unix permissions in game software Development studio takes up over 60 megabytes
when users opt for a full install Lacks a simple way for users to create game assets in the Ren'Py
studio, though the studio does accept imports of the most common formats
grex is using Ren'Py every other week recently.