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name: playdate-dev description: Playdate game development in Lua with the Playdate SDK, including game loop, sprites, graphics, input (crank, buttons, accelerometer), UI, performance, metadata (pdxinfo), and simulator/device workflow. Use when asked to make a Playdate game, implement Playdate-specific mechanics, or apply Playdate design and accessibility guidelines.

Playdate Dev

Overview

Build and troubleshoot Playdate games in Lua with Playdate-specific constraints, input, and SDK workflows.

Quick Start Workflow

1. Clarify the request scope (gameplay goal, target device vs simulator, SDK version, release vs prototype).
2. Choose inputs and accessibility (buttons, crank, accelerometer; provide alternatives; respect reduce-flashing setting).
3. Choose rendering approach (sprites vs immediate draw, image sizes, refresh rate, 1x vs 2x scale).
4. Implement the core loop (define playdate.update(), update game state, call playdate.graphics.sprite.update() and playdate.timer.updateTimers() when used).
5. Add metadata and launcher assets (pdxinfo, buildNumber, launcher card and icon sizes).
6. Test in the Simulator and on hardware (screen legibility, crank feel, audio balance, performance).

Starter Project

• Copy assets/lua-starter into a new project folder.
• Keep Source/main.lua and Source/pdxinfo in the source root.
• Replace placeholder values in pdxinfo and extend the update loop.

Implementation Notes

• Use references/inside-playdate-lua.md for Lua API names, file layout, and workflow details.
• Use references/designing-for-playdate.md for screen, text, input, audio, UI, and launcher guidance.
• Use Context7 /websites/sdk_play_date to spot-check API changes, then confirm Lua behavior in the latest SDK docs.

Resources

• references/designing-for-playdate.md
• references/inside-playdate-lua.md
• assets/lua-starter/