WHILE DO FOR loops

Let's have a look at how scripts can be used to control the progress of a game. Loops repeat when a statement is true.

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The while Statement

this script simply loops from the given condition test = 10 decrementing by 1 each time, test -= 1 down to 0 displaying the value of test and then exits the level.

As long as a given condition is true, the while loop will repeat 0 or more times. A while loop evaluates its test expression before executing the body of the loop.

Okay, so counting down for a ten count and then exiting the level may not be much of a gameplay, however, the principle is valid for many scenarios. A popular application of a while loop is to check if a certain type of monster has been completely wiped out and then something happens, like a door opens or closes, or a sector rises or lowers.

For example:

Script 1 checks if all shotgunguys with TID 10 (T_SHOTGUY, 10) have been taken care of. If yes, then a pillar opens. Script 2 checks if any monster with TID 11 (T_NONE, 11) has been taken care of. If yes, then the message WELL DONE appears on the display and the level ends.

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The do Statement

A do loop is simply a while loop turned on its head. First comes the loop, then the test expression.

Unlike a while loop, a do loop always executes at least once.

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The for Statement

Again an example to do the same as before, count from 10 to 0 and end the level.

In a for loop the initialzing test and modifying expressions are grouped in one area, separated by a semicolon.

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See also FOR_and_WHILE_loops in the WIKI for more examples.

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