Show HN: Rewriting Scratch 3.0 from scratch in Lua (browser-free native runtime)

6 months ago

ScratchLove is a native reimplementation of the Scratch 3.0 runtime in Lua for the LÖVE framework, designed to overcome browser limitations.
It supports a wide range of platforms including desktop, mobile, embedded Linux systems, gaming consoles, and handheld gaming devices.
Features include full Scratch 3.0 compatibility, cross-platform support, high performance via LuaJIT, IR-based compiler, and optimization passes.
Additional features: lazy loading, automatic cleanup, visual effects, SVG rendering, and color-based collision detection.
Limitations: Only the Pen extension is supported; lacks user input, microphone input, and full cloud variables support.
Installation requires LÖVE 11.x and optionally LuaJIT for running tests.
Usage includes running with local .sb3 files, Scratch project IDs, or drag & drop functionality.
ScratchLove leverages LÖVE's cross-platform capabilities for distribution to Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, and handheld devices.
Project structure includes directories for compiler, VM, renderer, pen, audio, loader, parser, UI, utils, resvg, tests, and lib.
Development tips include running in debug mode, skipping compilation, and using timeouts for testing.
Contribution guidelines emphasize type annotations, testing, documentation, and code style.
License: GNU Affero General Public License v3.0 (AGPL-3.0).
Acknowledgments to TurboWarp, Scratch Team, LÖVE, and contributors.

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