Learning how to code : C++ or Python ?
5 years ago
Python is now on Gamebuino, it is the perfect opportunity to discover that not so recent but very trendy language ! To celebrate this news, we offer you the chance to win a Gamebuino META : hurry up and take part in our raffle, there are only a few days left !
Why would you choose to write code in Python ?
If you have been through some of our tutorials, then you already know why, the C++ was until now the only language compatible with our Gamebuinos. But this era is now over with the introduction of Python! There are similarities between C++ and Python : both are object-oriented coding, and are the most usually used coded languages in 2019. Both will allow you to learn how to code, and to create more and more advanced games. However, here are some features that might make you want to try or switch to Python if you start learning how to code.
A clearer syntax
With its much easier syntax than C++, it is simpler for a beginner to understand the meaning of an algorithm.
Interpreted language
Unlike the C++, that is compiled language, Python can execute instructions directly, which speed the testing process : no need to compile your game, you can test it immediately.
Dynamic typing
With Python, there is no need to declare a variable type before using it. It is dynamically typed, which means that it has untyped variable names, the typing is not explicitly specified. It is implicitly linked to the information dealt with. It ensures a lighter coding, that is also easier to use for beginners.
No need to install any software
Unlike the C++ for which you need the IDE Arduino, with Python you do not need any compiler. You can simply use your favorite code editor, then simply slide your file into your Gamebuino and try it.
Lesser lines of code
All the previous points converge : with Python, you can code in a more synthetic way with lesser lines of code. You will be able to code the prototypes of your games faster and get results in no time!
In conclusion?
As you might have understood it, Python has many benefits including simplifying the learning process of coding for beginners. Yet, it also allows you to create very advanced programs ! The C++ is nevertheless a very powerful and effective language that we will keep on our Gamebuinos. The choice will be yours!
NEW 5 years ago
Ça je l'avais remarqué, pour du python il suffit d'écrire print("Hello World") , pour du c++ ( programme console) il faut 7 lignes de codes !
NEW 5 years ago
That's great news, looking forward to it, cause C++ is very powerful, but Python is much more easier and friendly. Python will boost up the community!
NEW 5 years ago
jicehel
I meant Snake because... well... Python! You need to get some sleep jicehel ;-)
NEW 5 years ago
Normalement c'est prévu d'ici une semaine / quinze jours mais à confirmer par l'équipe ;)
Xoff
5 years ago
I was thinking the same thing, but infos below make me doubt:
Un langage interprété
Contrairement au C++, qui doit être compilé, le Python peut être exécuté immédiatement, ce qui accélère grandement les tests : vous pouvez lancer votre jeu instantanément, sans avoir à le compiler.
NEW 5 years ago
what about performances between Python (interpreted) and C++ (compiled) ?
in game developement, depending on the game, performance could be a determinant factor..
any ideas ?
eriban
5 years ago
I would assume that to run on the Gamebuino the Python code is compiled and uploaded as binary, just as C++. Given the fairly limited CPU and memory resources of the Gamebuino, I would be surprised if it is interpreted there. I am not sure though, and happy to have that either confirmed or denied though.
NEW 5 years ago
Xoff
I would assume that to run on the Gamebuino the Python code is compiled and uploaded as binary, just as C++. Given the fairly limited CPU and memory resources of the Gamebuino, I would be surprised if it is interpreted there. I am not sure though, and happy to have that either confirmed or denied though.
Sorunome
5 years ago
The python port is based on CircuitPython, which, in turn, is based on MicroPython, and thus the code is actually interpreted on the device itself
Thierry
5 years ago
It is possible to precompile your python to reduce memory footprint and improve performance.
That's what libraries uses.
I believe the tool is mpy-cross.
more details on Adafruit website.
NEW 5 years ago
jicehel
I was thinking the same thing, but infos below make me doubt:
Un langage interprété
Contrairement au C++, qui doit être compilé, le Python peut être exécuté immédiatement, ce qui accélère grandement les tests : vous pouvez lancer votre jeu instantanément, sans avoir à le compiler.
eriban
5 years ago
It could be that you test via an emulator, without uploading to your Gamebuino, in which case is interpreted. However, reading the announcement text more carefully, it also says that installation of software is not required, which suggests that there is no emulator nor a compiler. I then not only wonder about performance, but also about error handling. A benefit of compilation is that syntax errors are caught before uploading to the Gamebuino. We just have to wait and see, I guess.
NEW 5 years ago
Xoff
It could be that you test via an emulator, without uploading to your Gamebuino, in which case is interpreted. However, reading the announcement text more carefully, it also says that installation of software is not required, which suggests that there is no emulator nor a compiler. I then not only wonder about performance, but also about error handling. A benefit of compilation is that syntax errors are caught before uploading to the Gamebuino. We just have to wait and see, I guess.