BYOND - FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ) v.0.3
Statement of Purpose:
This is a living document. The purpose of this document is to help answer many of the common questions that are asked by those new to BYOND which the website, forum, manual and other sources either did not mention, or are not utilized. This is not a replacement for the resources that are currently in existance. The help, tutorial and manual files can answer most any question that is frequently asked with much more detail than this document.
Disclaimer:
This document is not an official Dantom publication. It is maintained by the users of BYOND and should be considered "unofficial". This is for all those would-be reporters that like to quote things. When ever it is possible, the information contained within this document is checked by the designers of the product to ensure the validity of it's content.
Version Notes:
If the version is a full number (1.0, 2.0) then this document had been checked by all the authority possible at the time of it's release. All other version numbers should be considered a work in progress. To submit changes, fixes or additions please contact Gabriel (by e-mail).
Contents:
• How do I use the program to connect to other games?
• How do I use the program to make my own program or game?
• What commands are available for coding?
• Where can I find sample code or tutorials? (Or I'm a newbie, where do I get started?)
• Why use BYOND instead of another programming language?
• Can I Really create a chat server in two lines of code?
• How do I compile my code?
• Does BYOND support Isometric views?
How do I use the program to connect to other games?
1. Open DreamSeaker(DS)
2. Click on Help/General... on the menu
The information provided in this file describes general usage of the program and it's components.
How do I use the program to make my own program or game?
1. Open DreamMaker(DM)
2. Click on Help/General... on the menu
The information provided in this file describes general usage of the program and it's components.
What commands are available for coding?
1. Open DreamMaker(DM)
2.lick on Help/Help On... on the menu
The information provided in this help file is cataloged and searchable for easy reference. It contains all of the syntax, built in functions and commands that can be used to create your own program.
Where can I find sample code or tutorials? (Or I'm a newbie, where do I get started?)
Visit the BYOND Homepage and check the Code & Demo's section. Included are Demos, Sample Libraries, Code Snippets, Tutorials and Links to other web sites concerning BYOND.
Why use BYOND instead of another programming language?
There are a variety of languages to choose from, each with it's own strengths and faults. BYOND provides an easy to use platform to develop multi-user applications. It handles the grunt work of networking, leaving the programmer free to develop applications without knowing how or needing to program advanced socket layers and protocols. A more detailed comparison and feature list can be found on the BYOND Homepage in the Overview section. BYOND is not for everyone, but many users find it considerably easier to use than more traditional languages and programming environments.
Can I Really create a chat server in two lines of code?
Yes.
How do I compile my code?
Ensure that you have an environment open. If you have never created an environment:
1. Open DreamMaker(DM)
2. Click File/New Environment... from the menu.
3. Choose the location where your code file(s) exist.
4. In the browse pane on the left click on the check box next to your code file.
5. Click Build/Compile from the menu.
If you have an existing environment, simply open the environment and ensure that:
a. The code files are there and checked in the browse window.
b. Check the bottom window for error messages during compile.
This document is unable to address all the error messages you may receive during compile. If you believe there is a bug with the software, visit the BYOND Homepageand register a bug report. Attempt to reproduce the problem with minimal code and include any relevant information. Also check to see if there are any updates that address your issue. You might also check the Forum to see if it's a known issue.
Does BYOND support Isometric views?
The BYOND mapper is a 2-D display using a coordinate grid map. Isometric graphics are 2-D graphics drawn to represent a 3-D image, usually shown at a 30 degree angle. BYOND can easily show these images, but does run into some issues when coordinating movement due to the grid. As an example:
A wall that cuts at an angle and only uses a portion of a grid-square will still stop movement at the edges of that grid and not at the edges of the wall.This can normally be overcome by designing the graphics to the edge of the grid, but not always possible in order to keep the image the way that you'd like.