NI File – What is .ni file and how to open it?

Definition of a NI File

A NI file is a source code file created using Inform 7, a text-based programming language designed for creating interactive fiction games. It contains the game’s source code, which defines the story, characters, objects, locations, and interactions within the game. NI files are plain text files that can be opened and edited with any text editor.

Usage of NI Files

Inform 7 is a compiler that converts NI source code into a playable game. To create a game, users write the source code in a NI file and then compile it using the Inform 7 compiler. The compiled game can be exported as various formats, such as HTML, Z-code, and Glulx, which can be played on different platforms and devices.

Using a Text Editor

One simple method to open NI files is to use a basic text editor. Text editors like Notepad (Windows) and TextEdit (Mac) can open and display the contents of NI files. This option is straightforward and accessible, but it has limitations. Text editors do not recognize the syntax and formatting specific to Inform 7, so the code may appear cluttered and unorganized. Additionally, editing and manipulating the code in a text editor can be cumbersome, as it lacks specialized features for programming.

Using an Inform 7 IDE

For a more comprehensive experience, it is recommended to use an integrated development environment (IDE) specifically designed for Inform 7. Inform 7 IDEs provide enhanced features that streamline the coding process and facilitate efficient editing. These IDEs recognize the Inform 7 syntax and formatting, which enables syntax highlighting, autocompletion, and error checking. They also offer code navigation tools, such as project trees and debugging capabilities, which can significantly enhance the development process. Notable Inform 7 IDEs include Inform 7 IDE (Windows, Mac, Linux) and Gargoyle (Mac, Linux).

Inform 7 Source Code File (.NI)

Inform 7, developed by Graham Nelson, is a text-based programming language primarily designed for creating interactive fiction games. Inform 7 source code files carry the .NI file extension and contain the instructions and descriptions that define the game’s world, characters, objects, and interactions. These files are written in a high-level language similar to natural English, making them accessible to writers with limited programming experience.

Inform 7 source code is structured using a combination of natural language and formal syntax. It allows for the creation of complex game logic, including conditional statements, loops, and functions. The language also includes built-in support for text parsing, allowing games to respond to player input and generate unique experiences based on user choices. Developers can extend the functionality of Inform 7 using external libraries or by writing custom code in the included “Extensions” language.

Other Extensions