# RenPy — Visual Novel Engine for Interactive Storytelling

> An open-source engine for creating visual novels and interactive story-driven games using Python.

## Install

Save as a script file and run:

# RenPy — Visual Novel Engine

## Quick Use
Download from https://renpy.org and create a project. Edit script.rpy:
```python
label start:
    scene bg room
    show eileen happy
    e "Welcome!"
    menu:
        "Go left":
            jump left_path
        "Go right":
            jump right_path
```

## Introduction
RenPy is a free visual novel engine that lets creators build interactive story games using a scripting language built on Python. It powers thousands of commercial and indie visual novels on Steam and itch.io, and runs on Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, and the web.

## What RenPy Does
- Provides a domain-specific scripting language for branching narratives
- Handles character sprites, backgrounds, transitions, and animations
- Supports built-in save/load, rollback, and skip systems
- Exports games to Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, and HTML5
- Allows extending game logic with full Python when needed

## Architecture Overview
RenPy uses a custom scripting language (RPY) that compiles to bytecode interpreted by a Python runtime. The display engine uses Pygame/SDL2 with OpenGL acceleration. The state machine tracks story progress and allows rollback to any previous point. Assets are managed through an automatic resource loader.

## Self-Hosting & Configuration
- Download the SDK for Windows, macOS, or Linux from the official website
- Projects are folders with .rpy script files and asset subdirectories
- Configure resolution, window title, and build settings in options.rpy
- Use the built-in launcher to test, build, and distribute games
- VS Code extensions provide syntax highlighting and autocomplete

## Key Features
- Branching dialogue and choice systems with minimal boilerplate
- Built-in save, load, preferences, and accessibility features
- Sprite compositing with automatic positioning and layering
- Cross-platform export including mobile and web builds
- Active community with tutorials and annual game jams

## Comparison with Similar Tools
- **Twine** — Web-based hypertext stories; RenPy offers richer visuals and game features
- **RPG Maker** — RPG-focused engine; RenPy is purpose-built for narrative games
- **Unity** — More flexible but far more complex setup for visual novels
- **TyranoBuilder** — Commercial visual novel tool; RenPy is free and open source

## FAQ
**Q: Do I need Python knowledge?**
A: No, the scripting language is simple. Python is optional for advanced logic.

**Q: Can I sell games made with RenPy?**
A: Yes, it is free for commercial use with no royalties.

**Q: Does it support voice acting?**
A: Yes, you can associate audio files with each dialogue line.

**Q: How large is the community?**
A: Large and active, with forums, Discord, and annual game jams.

## Sources
- https://github.com/renpy/renpy
- https://renpy.org

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Source: https://tokrepo.com/en/workflows/asset-de11ba6d
Author: Script Depot