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Question: How do you make a character move in GameMaker?

Answer

In GameMaker, moving a character typically involves changing their x and y coordinates on the screen. Here's a step-by-step guide to making a basic character movement system:

Step 1: Create the Character Object

  • In your GameMaker project, create a new object (e.g., obj_player).

Step 2: Set Up Movement Variables

  • In the Create Event of obj_player, initialize your movement variables.
// Create Event of obj_player var speed = 4; // The speed at which the character will move.

Step 3: Write the Movement Code

  • To prevent permanent movement when keys are not pressed, ensure motion only occurs during key presses. Add this code in the Step Event of obj_player:
// Step Event of obj_player // Initialize movement direction variables var mov_x = 0; var mov_y = 0; // Determine movement direction based on key presses if (keyboard_check(vk_left)) { mov_x -= 1; } if (keyboard_check(vk_right)) { mov_x += 1; } if (keyboard_check(vk_up)) { mov_y -= 1; } if (keyboard_check(vk_down)) { mov_y += 1; } // Normalize vector if both components are non-zero to maintain consistent speed in all directions if (mov_x != 0 && mov_y != 0) { var len = sqrt(mov_x * mov_x + mov_y * mov_y); mov_x /= len; mov_y /= len; } // Apply movement x += mov_x * speed; y += mov_y * speed;

Step 4: Add Sprites and Collision (Optional)

  • Assign sprites to your obj_player to visually represent the character.
  • If necessary, add collision detection to prevent the character from moving through solid objects.

Step 5: Test Your Game

  • Place obj_player in a room and run your game to test the movement.

This is a very basic example of character movement. Depending on your needs, you might want to implement acceleration, friction, or more complex mechanics like jumping or pathfinding. Also, consider using keyboard_check_pressed for one-time key presses and keyboard_check_released when you want an action to occur after releasing a key.

As your game development progresses, you may want to look into finite state machines (FSM) for more complex character behaviors and better code structure and organization.

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