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.