How do I install Metalua with LuaRocks?

Install both `metalua-parser` and `metalua-compiler` rocks separately using LuaRocks commands. Refer to the individual README files for specific installation steps and dependencies.

What are the differences between Metalua and standard Lua?

Metalua extends Lua 5.1 with compile-time meta-programming features like macros and syntax enhancements, allowing code manipulation during compilation, whereas standard Lua is limited to runtime execution.

Can Metalua work with LuaJIT?

Metalua is based on Lua 5.1, so it should be compatible with LuaJIT's Lua 5.1 mode, but performance and feature compatibility may vary due to LuaJIT's unique extensions and optimizations.

How to write macros in Metalua?

Macros are defined using Metalua's syntax extensions and compile-time execution. Check the `README-compiler.md` documentation for examples, syntax rules, and step-by-step guidance.

Is Metalua suitable for game scripting?

While it maintains Lua's lightweight nature, the compile-time overhead and meta-programming complexity might not be ideal for real-time game scripting where runtime performance and simplicity are critical.

Metalua vs Terra for meta-programming in Lua?

Metalua focuses on compile-time meta-programming within Lua syntax for DSL creation, whereas Terra is a low-level language embedded in Lua for systems programming. Choose Metalua for Lua-centric code generation and Terra for performance-critical, low-level tasks.

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Metalua

Lua

A Lua superset compiler and code analysis tool with compile-time meta-programming capabilities.

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What is Metalua?

Metalua is a programming language toolchain that extends Lua 5.1 with compile-time meta-programming capabilities. It serves as both a code analysis tool and a compiler for a superset of Lua, allowing developers to manipulate and generate code during the compilation phase rather than at runtime.

Target Audience

Lua developers who need advanced code generation, domain-specific language creation, or compile-time code transformation capabilities while maintaining compatibility with the Lua ecosystem.

Value Proposition

Metalua provides the only comprehensive compile-time meta-programming solution for Lua 5.1, offering powerful code manipulation capabilities while maintaining full compatibility with standard Lua, making it ideal for creating domain-specific languages and advanced code generation tools.

Overview

The metalua programming language

Use Cases

Best For

Creating domain-specific languages within the Lua ecosystem
Implementing advanced code generation and transformation tools
Extending Lua syntax with custom constructs and operators
Building static analysis tools for Lua codebases
Developing educational tools for teaching meta-programming concepts
Creating embedded scripting languages with enhanced compile-time capabilities

Not Ideal For

Projects requiring compatibility with Lua 5.2 or later versions without fallback to 5.1
Teams seeking a simple, runtime-only scripting solution without compile-time overhead
Developers unfamiliar with meta-programming concepts or compile-time code generation

Pros & Cons

Pros

Compile-Time Meta-Programming

Enables advanced code generation and transformation during compilation, as highlighted in the key features for creating domain-specific languages and tools.

Lua 5.1 Compatibility

Fully compatible with standard Lua 5.1, allowing seamless integration with existing Lua codebases without modification.

Modular Architecture

Separated into `metalua-parser` and `metalua-compiler` LuaRocks, providing flexibility for independent code analysis or full compilation workflows.

Dual Licensing Flexibility

Released under both MIT and EPL licenses, offering choice for permissive or copyleft project requirements, as noted in the README.

Cons

Limited to Lua 5.1

Does not support newer Lua versions like 5.2 or 5.4, which may restrict adoption in modern projects relying on updated Lua features.

Setup Complexity

Requires installing two separate LuaRocks (`metalua-parser` and `metalua-compiler`), complicating initial configuration compared to single-package tools.

Niche Use Case

Primarily focused on advanced meta-programming, resulting in fewer community resources, tutorials, and third-party integrations than mainstream Lua extensions.

Frequently Asked Questions

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