Learn LOVE2D with Real Code Examples

LOVE2D uses Lua, a lightweight scripting language, for game logic and rapid development.

It provides modules for graphics, audio, physics, input, and file handling.

Developers can quickly create 2D games using simple code and minimal setup.

LOVE2D is highly extensible with Lua libraries, custom modules, and community tools.

It is ideal for hobbyists, indie developers, game jams, and educational projects.

love.graphics module for 2D rendering

love.audio module for music and sound

love.physics for Box2D physics

love.keyboard, love.mouse, love.joystick for input

File system access via love.filesystem

love.load(): initialization function

love.update(dt): called each frame for logic updates

love.draw(): called each frame for rendering

love.keypressed / love.mousepressed: input events

Modules like love.graphics and love.physics handle functionality

main.lua (entry point)

conf.lua (optional configuration)

assets/ (images, audio, fonts)

libs/ (external Lua libraries)

build/ (packaged .love or executables)

Set up project folder with main.lua

Write game logic using Lua and LOVE2D callbacks

Add assets like images, audio, and fonts

Test frequently using LOVE2D runtime

Package and distribute as .love or native executables

Beginner: simple 2D platformer

Intermediate: top-down shooter or puzzle game

Advanced: physics-based games

Expert: integrating external Lua modules and shaders

Studio-level: polished 2D indie game for desktop/mobile

LOVE2D vs Unity: LOVE2D is Lua 2D-only and lightweight; Unity is full-featured 2D/3D with C#

LOVE2D vs Godot: LOVE2D uses Lua; Godot uses GDScript/C#/VisualScript with editor

LOVE2D vs LibGDX: LOVE2D is Lua 2D framework; LibGDX is Java 2D/3D

LOVE2D vs Bevy: LOVE2D is Lua 2D-only; Bevy is Rust ECS, 2D/3D code-centric

LOVE2D excels in rapid 2D prototyping and small indie games

2006 – LOVE2D initial release

2010 – Stable release 0.8.x series

2013 – Version 0.9.x series

2017 – Version 11.x series

2020–2025 – Continuous updates and community contributions

main.lua: entry Lua script

love.load: initialization callback

love.update: per-frame update callback

love.draw: per-frame rendering callback

Modules: library for specific functionality