Python Game Coding Level 1 - Lesson 1

Introduction to Python

• Python is a versatile programming language used for software development, automation, data analysis, game creation, scientific calculations, and artificial intelligence.
• It offers a vast collection of libraries and frameworks, simplifying various tasks.
• Known for its simplicity and readability, Python is suitable for both beginners and experienced developers.

Getting Started with Python

• Access Python through Inspire Campus with three steps: download Python, start IDLE, and open Command Prompt.
• IDLE (Integrated Development and Learning Environment) is the IDE bundled with Python, designed for ease of use.

IDLE Features

• IDLE consists of two windows: Shell and Editor.
  • Shell Window: Executes and displays code instantly, but does not allow saving or editing once ENTER is pressed.
  • Editor Window: Allows code saving and editing, must be saved before execution.
• Code syntax highlighting aids in reading and debugging by color-coding different parts of the code.

Debugging

• Errors are indicated by unresponsive code or red text highlights, signaling the need for code debugging.

The Print Function

• The print() function outputs information to the console or terminal, accepting one or more arguments.
  • Example usage: print("Your message") displays "Your message."

Arithmetic Operators

• Python functions as a basic calculator using operators for arithmetic tasks:
  • Addition: print(2+2)
  • Subtraction: print(2-1)
  • Division: print(2/2)
  • Multiplication: print(2*2)
  • Exponentiation: print(2**2)

Strings in Python

• Strings are sequences of characters enclosed in single (' ') or double (" ") quotes.
• Strings can be combined using commas in the print function:
  • Example: print("My name is John", "I can code") yields "My name is John I can code."

Practical Coding Guidelines

• When using the print function, include brackets after print and use inverted commas for text.
• For mathematical strings, no inverted commas are used, and calculations are performed directly in print.

Independent Activity Instructions

• Create and save a new folder in IDLE for "Python Game Coding Lesson 1."
• Develop a code that welcomes users and demonstrates the use of the print function with various mathematical expressions.
• Utilize operators to display results of arithmetic calculations, including multiplication, addition, subtraction, division, and exponentiation.

Flowcharts

• Flowcharts visually represent algorithms and are read from top to bottom.
• They use distinct shapes and arrows to indicate the sequence of commands.
• Programmers use flowcharts to efficiently plan and organize their code.
• Each command type is depicted with a specific shape.

Creating a Flowchart

• Choose a game title and sketch a flowchart by hand.
• Complete guided activities on Inspire Campus for deeper understanding.

Running Pygame

• Steps for creating a basic Pygame program include:
  • Create a folder named "Lesson 2: Game title".
  • Open IDLE and create a new file.
  • Write the initial code to define how to draw on the screen, using the command to display the game title.
  • Use import pgzrun to prepare Pygame for execution.
  • Save, run the code, and observe the displayed title.

Variables

• Variables act as containers for information in Python, allowing users to store various data types.
• Important to follow variable naming rules when defining variables.
• Example of variable assignment includes characters or words, like message="Hello".

Using Print with Variables

• To display the value of variables, use print with the variable name in brackets.
• For example, print(message) outputs "Hello".
• Multiple variables can be printed together using a comma, such as print(message, my_name).

Creating Characters (Actors)

• In game development, characters are referred to as "actors".
• Actors can perform actions or interact within the game environment.

Calculations with Variables

• Variables can store numerical values for calculations.
• Example: x=3, y=x*2, changes and utilizes variable values effectively.
• Variables can be updated throughout the code.

Lists

• Lists store multiple items in Python, starting with index 0.
• Items can be grouped in brackets and separated by commas, such as animals=["cat", "dog"].
• Access list items by specifying the index in brackets.

Print Function

• The print function displays text or variable values enclosed in brackets and inverted commas.
• Understanding of how to create and use variables with the print function is key for outputting messages accurately.

Independent Activity: Number Fun Game

• Create a "Number fun" game using Python to assign various themes to numbers (0-5 or up to 10).
• Ideas include:
  • Inspirational quotes associated with each number.
  • Daily fortunes or colors linked to numbers.
  • Guess the animal game, challenging players to match numbers with animals.
  • Random surprises or mini-games connected to specific numbers.
  • Class tests or quizzes assigning questions to numbers with corresponding scores.

Making Decisions in Games

• Game decisions often require computers to ask questions and compare values.
• Boolean values in Python can represent true or false conditions, aiding in decision-making.
• Boolean values must start with a capital letter and can be stored in variables.

Logical Operators

• Logical operators allow for comparisons:
  • and: Both conditions must be true.
  • or: Only one condition needs to be true.
• Common keywords include:
  • if: Checks if a condition is true.
  • elif: Checks additional conditions after an if.
  • else: Executes code if all previous conditions are false.

Python Assignment and Comparison Operators

• The = operator assigns a value to a variable (e.g., score = 10).
• The == operator checks if two values are equal.
• Comparison operators like >, <, and == return True or False when comparing values.

Branching in Code

• Branching allows different actions based on conditions using if, elif, and else.
• An if statement initiates a decision pathway, needing a colon at the end.
• An if...else statement provides alternative actions based on the truthfulness of a condition.

Multiple Conditions

• Multiple conditions can be checked using logical operators:
  • For and, all conditions must be true for a True output.
  • For or, at least one condition must be true for a True output.

Practical Coding Examples

• Simple branching can be illustrated with an if statement for checking a condition (e.g., if door == "red":).
• Using if...else enables the game to have a backup plan (e.g., check if treasure is found).
• The index function retrieves the position of elements in a list or string, enhancing interactivity in games.

While Loops

• A while loop continues to execute as long as a condition remains true, initiating only if the condition holds (e.g., while not have_sword:).
• User input can control the loop's execution (e.g., questioning whether the player has a sword).

Introduction to Python

• Python is a versatile programming language used for software development, automation, data analysis, game creation, scientific calculations, and artificial intelligence.
• It offers a vast collection of libraries and frameworks, simplifying various tasks.
• Known for its simplicity and readability, Python is suitable for both beginners and experienced developers.

Getting Started with Python

• Access Python through Inspire Campus with three steps: download Python, start IDLE, and open Command Prompt.
• IDLE (Integrated Development and Learning Environment) is the IDE bundled with Python, designed for ease of use.

IDLE Features

• IDLE consists of two windows: Shell and Editor.
  • Shell Window: Executes and displays code instantly, but does not allow saving or editing once ENTER is pressed.
  • Editor Window: Allows code saving and editing, must be saved before execution.
• Code syntax highlighting aids in reading and debugging by color-coding different parts of the code.

Debugging

• Errors are indicated by unresponsive code or red text highlights, signaling the need for code debugging.

The Print Function

• The print() function outputs information to the console or terminal, accepting one or more arguments.
  • Example usage: print("Your message") displays "Your message."

Arithmetic Operators

• Python functions as a basic calculator using operators for arithmetic tasks:
  • Addition: print(2+2)
  • Subtraction: print(2-1)
  • Division: print(2/2)
  • Multiplication: print(2*2)
  • Exponentiation: print(2**2)

Strings in Python

• Strings are sequences of characters enclosed in single (' ') or double (" ") quotes.
• Strings can be combined using commas in the print function:
  • Example: print("My name is John", "I can code") yields "My name is John I can code."

Practical Coding Guidelines

• When using the print function, include brackets after print and use inverted commas for text.
• For mathematical strings, no inverted commas are used, and calculations are performed directly in print.

Independent Activity Instructions

• Create and save a new folder in IDLE for "Python Game Coding Lesson 1."
• Develop a code that welcomes users and demonstrates the use of the print function with various mathematical expressions.
• Utilize operators to display results of arithmetic calculations, including multiplication, addition, subtraction, division, and exponentiation.

Flowcharts

• Flowcharts visually represent algorithms using shapes and arrows.
• They aid in planning and creating efficient code.
• Specific shapes indicate different types of commands.

Pygame Setup

• Create a new folder titled "Lesson 2: Game title" for your project.
• Use IDLE to write and save your game code.
• Start with a basic draw function to display your game title on the screen.
• Modify the title by altering variables in your code.

Variables in Python

• Variables act as containers to store data, like boxes holding different items.
• Naming conventions for variables are crucial, adhering to specific rules.
• To use variables in print statements, enclose strings in quotes and retrieve them with parentheses.
• Use commas to print multiple variables in a single statement.

Character Creation

• Characters in games are referred to as actors, which can move or interact.
• Assign actors using string variables, identifying each uniquely.

Calculations with Variables

• Variables can store numerical data without quotations.
• They can change values throughout the code, supporting calculations and updates.

Lists

• Lists can hold multiple items, organized by index starting at 0.
• Items in lists can be separated by commas and enclosed in brackets.
• Access list items by using the variable name followed by the index in brackets.

Print Function

• The print function outputs strings and variables defined in parentheses.
• Useful for displaying messages or variable values to users.

Independent Activity: "Number Fun" Game

• Create a game where each chosen number reveals unique outcomes (quotes, fortunes, colors, animals).
• Implement randomization to present varied responses for player selections.
• Encourage creativity by including mini-games or quizzes associated with numbers.

This quiz focuses on the introduction to the print function in Python programming. Learners will explore the basics of Python and its versatility in developing a variety of applications. Prepare to gain foundational knowledge essential for coding games in Python.