INFORM File – What is .inform file and how to open it?

Inform Project Files

An INFORM file is a text-based file used to create interactive fiction games using the Inform programming language. Inform is a high-level language designed specifically for writing text-based adventure games, providing a syntax and set of commands that allow authors to define characters, objects, rooms, and interactions within a virtual world. INFORM files contain the source code for an Inform game, written using the Inform language’s syntax and commands.

Upon being opened within the Inform development environment, the INFORM file is compiled into a Z-code file, a portable format that can be played on various platforms and devices. The Z-code file contains the game’s logic, rules, and narrative, and allows players to interact with the game world through text-based commands. Inform projects and the Z-code they produce are designed to be interpreted by a Z-machine, a virtual machine that executes the game’s code and allows players to interact with its interactive environment, solve puzzles, and advance the story.

Using Inform Development Tool (Windows, Mac, Linux)

To open an INFORM file using the Inform Development Tool, follow these steps:

1. Install Inform Development Tool on your computer, which provides the necessary environment to compile and execute Inform code.
2. Create a new project in Inform Development Tool or open an existing one.
3. Go to “File” > “Open” and navigate to the location of the INFORM file (.inform).
4. Select the file and click “Open.” The file will be loaded into the editor.

Using Inform IDEs (Windows, Mac, Linux)

Alternatively, you can use an Inform Integrated Development Environment (IDE) specifically designed for developing Inform projects. Some popular IDEs include:

1. Inform Designer: A full-featured IDE with various editing, compiling, and debugging tools.
2. Inform 7: A command-line IDE that supports advanced features for Inform 7 projects.
3. Gargoyle: A lightweight IDE that provides a simplified interface for creating Inform 6 games.

Once you have installed an Inform IDE, you can open an INFORM file by following these steps:

1. Launch the IDE and create a new project or open an existing one.
2. Use the IDE’s file explorer or “Open Project” option to navigate to the directory containing the INFORM file.
3. Select the INFORM file and click on “Open” or “Import.” The file will be loaded into the IDE’s editor.

Inform Development and Usage:

Inform is a programming language specifically designed for interactive fiction, allowing users to create text-based adventure games. Graham Nelson developed it in 1993 as a user-friendly alternative to older text adventure languages such as Zork. Inform simplifies the coding process by providing a natural language-like syntax and powerful commands for handling player input, game logic, and world building. The language’s ease of use has made it popular among both experienced game developers and aspiring creators alike.

INFORM File Structure and Syntax:

Files using the .INFORM extension are project files created with the Inform development environment. These files contain the source code for an interactive fiction game, including story text, room descriptions, character dialogue, and game mechanics. Inform’s syntax resembles natural language, making it accessible to users without prior programming experience. The language consists of commands and statements that define the game’s world, objects, characters, and interactions. Developers can customize their games by adding puzzles, inventory systems, dialogue trees, and other features. Once the code is written, the Inform compiler generates an executable file (.z5 or .zblorb) that can be played on various platforms, including desktop computers, mobile devices, and web browsers.

Other Extensions