Program Your First Little Game in Python

Introduction

Have you ever wanted to learn how to program? Whether you're brand new to coding or want to help someone else get started, this post is for you. We'll guide you through building two simple games: a random number generator and a grid-based moving robot simulation.

For more insights, check out my YouTube video where I walk through this step-by-step.

Getting Started

Before diving into the code, make sure you have the tools you need:

1. Install Python 3.12 from the official website.
2. Use a code editor like Visual Studio Code for easier coding.
3. Access the starter code in the GitHub repository.

Step 1: Build a Random Number Game

Let’s start with a random number generator. This simple game will generate a random number between two values and display it.

To run the game, execute the script named random_number_generator.py using your Python interpreter.

This is a great warm-up exercise that introduces basic programming concepts like functions and working with external libraries.

Step 2: Build a Moving Robot Game

Now, let’s take it up a notch. We’ll build a game where a robot moves around a grid, picks up items, and completes tasks.

Visualizing the Game

Imagine a 4x4 grid that looks like this:

• R: Represents the robot.
• X: Represents items to pick up.

The robot will navigate this grid, turn left or right, and pick up items when it reaches them.

Running the Game

To start, execute the script named moving_robot.py. You’ll see an interactive grid where you can control the robot’s movement using commands.

When you’re done exploring, you can exit the game by entering the quit command.

Modifying the Robot's Direction

Experiment with the self.robot_direction variable in the code. Changing its value will affect the direction the robot faces:

• 0 = Up
• 1 = Right
• 2 = Down
• 3 = Left

This setup uses numbers to represent directions, a common approach in computer science.

Explaining Modulo

In the turn_left function, you’ll notice the modulo operator %. It ensures that the robot’s direction wraps around correctly when turning.
For example:

• If the direction is 0 (Up) and you subtract 1, modulo wraps it back to 3 (Left), maintaining valid directions between 0 and 3.

Automating Movements

Use the go_path function to create a series of movements for the robot. This allows you to define complex paths and automate the robot’s behavior instead of manually issuing each command.

Bonus: Use Lambda Functions for Turning

Instead of writing separate turn_left and turn_right methods, you can define a more generic turn method in the class and use lambda functions to simplify turning operations.

Exploring the Class Further

If you’re curious, take a deeper look at the place_item and move functionalities in the RobotWorld class. Can you think of ways to improve or extend them? Maybe you could add obstacles or a scoring system for the robot game.

Small Excursus: Git

Git is a distributed version control system that helps you track changes in your code, collaborate with others, and manage different versions of your project. One of the key features of Git is branching—a way to diverge from the main line of development and work on a feature or fix without affecting the main project.

You are now on the main branch. This is usually the stable version of your project. If you want to work on a different feature or test something new without affecting the main branch, you can switch to another branch. For example, to explore a new solution or feature, you can switch to a branch called solution.

To switch branches in Git, use the following command:

git checkout solution

You will now see that the moving_robot.py as changed and you can inspect the success function.

Assignment: Write Your Own Success Function!

Your challenge: Create a function that displays a success animation or message when the robot completes its task. Get creative—this is your chance to personalize the game.

Comment your solution under the YouTube video, and I’ll feature the best submissions in an upcoming video. There might even be a small reward for the most innovative solution!

Final Thoughts

Congratulations! You’ve just built two Python games and taken your first steps into the world of programming. Remember, programming is all about experimenting, learning, and having fun.

If you enjoyed this post, subscribe to my YouTube channel for more tutorials, tips, and beginner-friendly projects. Let me know in the comments what you’d like to build next.

Keep coding and stay curious!