[SDL] Why combining C, SDL and scripting languages?

[Daniel V]

What are the reasons to use a scripting language like LUA or other,
together with SDL and C code? So, for what role does people use a
scripting language like this?

Is it just to separate code, so that not every one has the full
source, or is it to save compile time, or is it to speed up
development, or are there lots of more or other reasons?

What parts of the code is best suited for being scripted?

And can you use Code to write scripts? so you can move code from one
part to another? And do any one know if there is a C compiler that
makes bytecode for a small VM?

// Daniel V.

[Alex Barry]

Typically you would use scripting to allow the user to modify the behavior
of the program without recompiling. Some examples would be NPC behavior in
a game, or interface customizations.

Post by Daniel V
What are the reasons to use a scripting language like LUA or other,
together with SDL and C code? So, for what role does people use a
scripting language like this?
Is it just to separate code, so that not every one has the full
source, or is it to save compile time, or is it to speed up
development, or are there lots of more or other reasons?
What parts of the code is best suited for being scripted?
And can you use Code to write scripts? so you can move code from one
part to another? And do any one know if there is a C compiler that
makes bytecode for a small VM?
// Daniel V.
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[David Demelier]

Post by Daniel V
What are the reasons to use a scripting language like LUA or other,
together with SDL and C code? So, for what role does people use a
scripting language like this?

You mean Lua, it's a word not an acronym.

Post by Daniel V
Is it just to separate code, so that not every one has the full
source, or is it to save compile time, or is it to speed up

Yes, about the pros there is:

- easier deployment: you write once and run everywhere. No recompile for
every platform/arch,
- quick development: no compile time, scripting language are less verbose
and easier,
- security: you write your own API and provide only relevant functions. No
filesystem, no system inspection.

There are some drawbacks:

- performance are always lesser,
- debugging is much harder.

Post by Daniel V
development, or are there lots of more or other reasons?
What parts of the code is best suited for being scripted?

I usually say: data. Example: maps, opponent, GUI, quests.

David.