Defines

Defines, in AGI logic, allow you to provide a proper name for the variables, flags, objects and other data in the game. This significantly improves the readability of the code.

To create a define name, use the #define command. The name of the define is given, followed by the define value:

Code:

<syntaxhighlight lang="agi">

#define ego o0
#define roomDescription "This is a large hall with tall pillars down each side."

</syntaxhighlight>

Then the define name can be used in place of the define value:

Code:

<syntaxhighlight lang="agi">

draw(ego);
print(roomDescription);

</syntaxhighlight>

Note: The rules for defines vary depending on the compiler. The following discussion applies to the AGI Studio compiler.

Define names can only be used in arguments of commands (including gotos and the v0 == 3 type syntax (some compilers may allow you to use them anywhere).

Defines must be defined in the file before they are used.

The define name can contain letters, numbers, and the characters '_' and '.'. Spaces are not allowed.

Example

Below is a typical new room section of a logic file, without defines:

Code:

<syntaxhighlight lang="agi">

if (f5)
{
  load.pic(v0);
  draw.pic(v0);
  discard.pic(v0);

  draw(o0);
  show.pic();

}

</syntaxhighlight>

The same code, using defines, might appear like the following:

Code:

<syntaxhighlight lang="agi">

#define new_room f5
#define room_no  v0
#define ego      o0

if (new_room)
{
   load.pic(room_no);
   draw.pic(room_no);
   discard.pic(room_no);

   draw(ego);
   show.pic();
}

</syntaxhighlight>

The AGI Studio compiler allows you to place the #define commands in a separate file and then use those defines in multiple logics without having to redefine them all again. See includes for more details.

Sources

• AGI Studio help file

See also

• Logic syntax
• defines.txt
• Includes