Setup

To make a Python game you need two things:

1. Python: the programming language that runs your code. The computer understands Python, not Dutch or English.
2. An editor: the program where you type your code. Like Word, but for code.

Never programmed before? Start with Thonny, because it installs Python along with it and is made especially for beginners.

Choose your editor

• Thonny: ★☆☆ Easy. For beginners. Installs Python automatically. This is the starting point for all CoderDojo sessions.
• VS Code: ★★☆ Medium. The editor professional programmers use. Good when Thonny feels too small and you want to manage several files.
• PyCharm: ★★★ Advanced. A full IDE with a built-in debugger and smart code help. Suitable if you’ve been programming for a while already.

Next: virtual environment

Picked an editor? Then also read how virtual environments work. That is the “backpack” of every Python project — a separate folder with exactly the right packages for your game.

Not working? Have a look at Troubleshooting. It lists the most common installation errors with solutions.