.INFORM File Extension
Inform Project
| Developer | Graham Nelson |
| Popularity | |
| Category | Developer Files |
| Format | .Inform |
| Cross Platform | Update Soon |
What is an INFORM file?
The .INFORM file extension is associated with Inform, a powerful development system used for creating interactive fiction (IF). Inform provides a language for writing IF stories and a compiler for transforming these stories into playable games.
The .INFORM files typically contain the source code or project files used in the development of interactive fiction.
These files are integral to the Inform ecosystem, allowing developers to craft rich, text-based adventure games that engage players with complex narratives and interactive elements.
More Information.
The initial purpose of the .INFORM file was to serve as a container for Inform source code and project files. Inform was designed to enable developers to create intricate and immersive interactive fiction games without needing extensive programming knowledge.
The language and file format were developed to streamline the process of writing and compiling these games. Inform’s evolution has seen various versions and updates, each building on the previous one to enhance the capabilities of the language and the complexity of the games that can be created.
Origin Of This File.
The .INFORM file extension originates from the Inform programming language, which was first developed by Graham Nelson in the early 1990s.
Inform was created to provide a tool for developing interactive fiction, a genre of game that relies on text and user input to drive the story.
The original Inform system was influenced by classic text-based adventure games, such as those developed by Infocom.
Over time, Inform evolved, with Inform 7 being a notable iteration that introduced a more natural language-based approach to writing interactive fiction.
File Structure Technical Specification.
An .INFORM file typically contains source code written in the Inform programming language. This code is used to define the game’s narrative, characters, objects, and interactions.
The file structure of an .INFORM file includes a combination of text-based instructions and metadata that describe the game’s elements and logic.
Technical Specifications:
- File Format: Plain text, often with specific syntax rules defined by the Inform language.
- Contents: Source code that defines game elements, narrative flow, and interactive components.
- Encoding: Generally UTF-8 or another standard text encoding.
- Compatibility: The .INFORM file is used primarily with Inform compiler systems, such as Inform 7 or Inform 6.
How to Convert the File?
Converting .INFORM files generally involve compiling the source code into a playable format. This process is handled by the Inform compiler, which transforms the text-based source code into an executable game file. Depending on the version of Inform you are using, the conversion process might vary slightly.
Steps for Conversion:
- Compile Using Inform Compiler: Open the .INFORM file in the Inform development environment or compiler and run the compile function.
- Output Formats: The compilation process generates a game file in a format compatible with interactive fiction interpreters, such as .Z5 or .Z8 for Inform 6 or .Z8 for Inform 7.
- Distribution: Distribute the compiled game file in the appropriate format for players to enjoy.
Advantages And Disadvantages.
Advantage:
- User-Friendly Language: Inform provides a relatively accessible language for creating interactive fiction, making it easier for writers and storytellers to develop complex narratives without needing extensive programming skills.
- Rich Development Environment: Inform offers a comprehensive environment for developing interactive fiction, including tools for testing and debugging.
- Active Community: The Inform community is vibrant and supportive, with a wealth of resources, tutorials, and forums available for assistance.
Disadvantage:
- Learning Curve: Despite its user-friendly nature, there is still a learning curve associated with mastering the Inform language and its nuances.
- Limited Visual Capabilities: Inform is primarily focused on text-based interactions, which may limit the scope of visual or multimedia elements in games.
- Compatibility Issues: Older versions of Inform may face compatibility issues with modern systems or tools, requiring updates or conversions.
How to Open INFORM?
Open In Windows
- Install: Inform 7 or Inform 6 from the official website.
- Open: Launch the Inform application and use “File > Open” to load the .INFORM file.
- Edit/Compile: Edit source code and compile to playable formats like .Z5 or .Z8.
Open In Linux
- Install: Use Wine for Inform 7 or compile Inform 6 from source.
- Open: Run Inform through Wine or use text editors for basic access.
- Edit/Compile: Use command-line tools or installed development tools for editing and compiling.
Open In MAC
- Install: Download and install Inform 7 or Inform 6 for macOS.
- Open: Launch Inform and use “File > Open” to access the .INFORM file.
- Edit/Compile: Edit in the development environment and compile as needed.
Open In Android
- Cloud Services: Use cloud-based platforms to access .INFORM files.
- Remote Desktop: Connect to a computer with Inform using remote desktop apps.
- Text Editors: For basic viewing and editing, use text editor apps.
Open In IOS
- Cloud Services: Access .INFORM files via cloud storage services.
- Remote Desktop: Use remote desktop apps to connect to a computer with Inform.
- Text Editors: Use text editing apps for basic file access and modifications.
Open in Others
- Web-Based Tools: Use online IDEs or text editors for basic access.
- Cross-Platform Tools: Utilize cross-platform tools or interpreters for Inform files.
- Inform Interpreters: Use interpreters compatible with compiled game formats for running interactive fiction.
