LoveDos
A framework for creating 2D DOS games in Lua with an API based on a subset of LÖVE.
What is LoveDos?
LoveDOS is a framework for creating 2D games that run on DOS operating systems using Lua. It provides an API based on a subset of the LÖVE framework, allowing developers to write game logic in Lua and target DOS platforms, either natively or via emulation with DOSBox. The framework simplifies retro game development by offering familiar tools and packaging support for distribution.
Game developers interested in creating 2D games for DOS, retro gaming enthusiasts, and Lua programmers looking to explore low-level platform development. It's particularly suited for those familiar with the LÖVE framework who want to target DOS environments.
LoveDOS stands out by providing a streamlined, Lua-based framework specifically for DOS game development, reducing the complexity of targeting an older platform. Its LÖVE-inspired API lowers the learning curve, and its compatibility with DOSBox allows testing on modern systems without needing physical DOS hardware.
Overview
A framework for making 2D DOS games in Lua
Use Cases
Best For
- Creating 2D retro-style games for DOS
- Learning game development with Lua on low-level platforms
- Porting LÖVE projects to DOS environments
- Developing games for DOS emulators like DOSBox
- Exploring retro computing and game design
- Building lightweight games with minimal dependencies
Not Ideal For
- Projects requiring modern graphics, 3D rendering, or advanced visual effects
- Teams needing cross-platform deployment beyond DOS (e.g., mobile, web, or contemporary desktop OSes)
- Developers relying on extensive third-party libraries, active communities, or regular updates
- Applications demanding internet connectivity, modern APIs, or high-performance computing
Pros & Cons
Pros
Offers an API based on a subset of the LÖVE framework, easing the transition for developers already skilled with LÖVE, as directly stated in the README.
Specifically built for DOS development, with built-in support for DOSBox emulation, allowing testing on modern systems without physical hardware, highlighted in the Getting Started section.
Uses Lua for game logic, providing a simple and flexible scripting environment that reduces complexity for retro game projects, as emphasized in the project description.
Includes documentation for packaging games for distribution, with a dedicated doc/packaging.md file that simplifies creating standalone DOS executables.
Cons
Implements only a subset of the LÖVE API, which may restrict access to advanced features like complex graphics or audio effects, as admitted in the README's description.
Exclusively targets DOS, a deprecated operating system, limiting game reach and requiring emulation for most users, which adds complexity for modern development workflows.
Lacks extensive third-party libraries, tutorials, or community support compared to mainstream frameworks, making problem-solving and scaling more challenging.
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Projects
LÖVRLua Virtual Reality Framework
Allegro 4.2The official Allegro 5 git repository. Pull requests welcome!
Love.jsLÖVE ported to the web using Emscripten, updated to the latest Emscripten and LÖVE (v11.5)
LÖVE PotionLÖVE for Nintendo Homebrew
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