Scriptix

Scriptix is a scripting language designed for interactive entertainment software, and it has several goals for its existence. Firstly, it must be easy to program in. The original plan was to use a BASIC-like syntax, but feedback has shown that familiarity is more important. As a result, versions of Scriptix from 0.19 onward will have a C/C++-like syntax. However, the Scriptix parser is flexible enough to handle almost any syntax desired.

Secondly, Scriptix must be threadable, allowing semi-synchronous execution of threads within a single OS process. Both pre-emptive and cooperative multi-tasking should be available, and the embedding application can decide on the best method for the task. While pre-emptive multi-tasking is currently supported, it is still rudimentary, and basic thread control types (mutexes, etc.) are not yet implemented.

Thirdly, the language must support a decent subset of high-level language features, such as arrays, classes, and user-definable data types. While the scope of effect that user scripts can have on the language is somewhat limited, this also limits the negative effects a poorly written or malicious script can have on the host application.

Finally, Scriptix must be of decent speed. As a result, a clever garbage management system has been put in place, which can result in a more responsive application. However, the current garbage collection scheme is not yet optimized, but plans for improvement are underway before the 1.0 release.

In terms of performance, simple tests have shown that Scriptix easily outperforms more popular scripting languages. Minor API and language changes have been made in the latest release of Scriptix, which is also the last independent release. Future releases will be integrated into the AweMUD package.