New! - EZRL ver. 0.1.10  -- Microsoft C++ 2010 Express Project

Download - ver 0.1.9

EZRL Guide 

EZRL Documentation

Introduction

The motivation for creating this library is to create a simple, easy to use, graphical ASCII roguelike library. Although it could be used for other applications, its primary purpose is to provide a ready to go framework for creating a roguelike game.

The library is written in C++ and the only dependency is SDL. The library comes in two flavors (both are included in the download link): sEZRL and EZRL.

The Simple Easy Roguelike ( sEZRL) library contains the EZRL framework and the mandatory modules. It can create a window, handle input, write ASCII characters to the screen, and update the application at a constant frame rate. That is all it does. It is up to the end user to add all functionality.

On the other hand, the EZRL library includes additional add-on modules that allow for a player's ASCII avatar - the mighty '@' symbol (or whatever symbol the designer chooses). In addition to the Player module, there is a Dungeon module and also a Monster Manager module. These additional modules allow for the creation of an over world, a multiple leveled dungeon maze, and dangerous areas filled with monsters trying to kill the brave ASCII adventurer - '@'.

EZRL Resources

In addition to providing all the source code that is fully documented by Doxygen, there is an EZRL Guide (see below). This guide is intended for beginner coders that are trying to learn how to make a roguelike using C++.

In part one, the reader will be taken through the most basic sEZRL application all the way through to the completed test game implemented by the EZRL library. This will allow the reader see how to build a basic roguelike starting with just the sEZRL library.

In part two, the sEZRL library will be discussed. Discussion will show the reader how this basic part of the library was constructed.

Also, there is a support board in the Dephbokks forums.

Disclaimers

• There are other roguelike libraries out there, some in other languages. Some are very awesome (see the Doryen Library). The EZRL library is not intended to compete with these libraries. Instead it strives to be simple and easy to extend.
• Personally, I don't think C++ is the ideal language to write a roguelike. C#, Python, and Java seem like better options. However, there are always people who want to program in C++ and create a roguelike. Furthermore, they want to see how it all goes together. This project is for them.
• There is no A* path finding, no complex AI, no GPU acceleration, and no ability to save the game state. So far these are beyond the scope of the project. However, never say never. A*, and game saving may be added as additional modules when time permits. GPU acceleration can also be added when time permits. Complex AI - well anything beyond FSMs are up to you!
• Lastly, this is not a tutorial. This is just a step-by-step presentation of what was done to make EZRL and the test roguelike game. The reader should check his own facts. Use critical thinking and research things on your own. If you decide that the methods and explanations are adequate then fine, otherwise speak up and point out any inaccuracies or mistakes.