Getting Started with 2D Games Using Arcade (Part 1): What Are We Going to Build?

Published: (December 24, 2025 at 04:56 AM EST)
2 min read
Source: Dev.to

Source: Dev.to

What Are We Going to Create?

Coin Collecting Game

In this book, we will create a “Coin Collecting Game” that anyone can quickly and easily build.
It’s a simple (and slightly cute) game where you collect scattered coins.

“This is what it means for a game to actually move with programming!!”

Coin Collecting Game demo

About the Extra Chapters (Coming Soon!!)

After learning the basic mechanics, you’ll also be able to explore these techniques.

  1. Switching Animations
    Switching Animations demo

  2. Camera Movement
    Camera Movement demo

  3. Using a Physics Engine
    Physics Engine demo

What Is Python?

Python itself is briefly introduced here. Please take a look if you’re interested.

About Python Basics

You can continue reading without knowing about classes, but having a rough idea will help you understand things faster. If needed, checking Chapter 12: Trying Out Classes in advance will make things smoother.

Library Introduction

What Is the Python Arcade Library?

The Python Arcade Library makes it easy to handle game essentials such as characters, movement, and collision detection. Its main feature is that you can create something that feels like a real game without having to think about complicated details.

Arcade Library illustration

You can explore all available features in the API References and find sample code in the Examples.

Installing the Arcade Library

The Python Arcade Library is a third‑party package. Install it from the command line using pip (the $ prompt is not part of the command):

# install arcade
pip install arcade

Coming Up Next…

Thank you for reading so far.
The next chapter is titled “Let’s Create the Game Screen.” Stay tuned 👍

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