I've been working on a website for my board game that randomly generates cards, which is great because I don't have to create hundreds of them physically. I've gotten pretty far using JavaScript, but I've hit some obstacles while trying to implement combat mechanics with diverse card abilities. I'm noticing that transferring JSON data and manipulating elements is tricky, especially since JavaScript functions can feel somewhat clunky for what I need. I'm aiming to develop a complete game now, so I'm debating whether I should stick with JavaScript or switch to a dedicated game development platform. I'd love to hear opinions on whether JavaScript can handle this type of project or if it's better to use something else. Also, any insights into why it may or may not be suitable would be invaluable, especially since I'm still pretty new to web dev.
5 Answers
If your project is growing but you're running into performance issues, it might be a sign to consider a more optimized game engine like Unity or Unreal. JavaScript is great for simpler web games, but as complexity increases, it might start dragging. However, if you're just learning, it’s worth exploring how far you can push JavaScript first—there are many successful games made entirely with it!
It sounds like you might be better off evaluating your understanding of JavaScript rather than ditching it altogether. JavaScript can definitely handle full games, but sometimes things don't work the way we expect due to our current skill level. You could try looking into web-based game engines that utilize JavaScript, as they can optimize your workflow while still allowing you to use the language you’re learning.
Honestly, the issues you're facing sound more like a developer problem than a language problem. If you’re hitting walls, it's probably worthwhile to diagnose your code and see where improvements can be made. JavaScript has come a long way and continues to be a flexible option for many developers. If the learning curve seems steep, that's a good indication to seek out resources or tutorials rather than jumping ship on the language itself.
Your challenges with JSON and cross-browser manipulation aren’t uncommon, and they usually stem from understanding how to optimize your scripts. Many games are built in JavaScript and run smoothly, even complex ones. You might just need to dive deeper into JavaScript tools or frameworks that can help streamline your development process. Switching languages could end up being more hassle than it’s worth if you’re not sure why things aren’t working.
Have you explored using tools like nanDeck for generating cards? It's a bit of a learning curve, but it can save you time by letting you automate card generation from spreadsheets, which could simplify your project without abandoning JavaScript completely. Plus, it would allow you to focus more on game mechanics than on card layouts!
That's true! Plus, with JavaScript, everyone can play your game right in the browser without downloads, which is a huge bonus. You don’t typically get that with traditional game engines.