Donacode Syntax

Syntax

What is syntax? Syntax is the set of rules regarding the structure of symbols in an expression to achieve a certain result. For example, if we want our character to perform an animation, the donacode syntax to achieve that is: "@CHARACTERNAME is animation_name". Think of syntax as the template of the code we need to get a certain result. What symbols are we using? What is capitalized, what is not capitalized? Where do I plug in certain information? These are things you'll think about with syntax.

Learning donacode syntax is your first step in creating stories. We'll be walking you through the syntax for what we're learning as we go, but let's list all the syntax that we'll be using in this course below. You may not know what each of them mean as of right now, but you will as you progress through the course. Keep this lesson as a way to familiarize yourself with donacode and as a good reference point.

Setting the Format

set format spotlight

set format cinematic

Setting the Background

EXT. BOARDWALK ATLANTIC - DAY

INT. AIRPLANE SEATS - DAY

Setting the Background Zone

@cut to zone 1

@cut to zone 2

@cut to zone 3

Transition

@transition fade in black .25

@transition fade out black .25

@transition fade in white .25

Character Screen Placement

@CHARACTERNAME stands screen center

@YOU stands screen left

@YOU enters from right to screen center

Character Spot Placement

@CHARACTERNAME spot 1.280 160 0

@YOU spot 0.955 199 10

@YOU spot 1.280 -200 0 THEN YOU walks to spot 1.280 160 0

Changing Outfits

@CHARACTERNAME changes into outfit_name

@YOU changes into DateNight1_Ch1

Dialogue Bubbles with Animations

CHARACTER (animation_name)

Hey, I'm Amber! Nice to meet you.

YOU (talk_agree_happy)

I'm really glad you're here.

Thought Bubbles with Animations

CHARACTER (animation_name)

(What's that smell?)

YOU (listen_nod_happy_loop)

(Just smile and nod.)

Narrator Bubbles

NARR

Will you make it in time for Alex's show?

NARR (YOU)

I rushed as fast as I could to Alex's show.

NARRATOR

Will you make it in time for Alex's show?

NARRATOR (YOU)

I rushed as fast as I could to Alex's show.

Standalone Character Animations

@CHARACTERNAME is animation_name

@YOU is laugh_chuckle

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