Pseudocode

Pseudocode refers to notes or drafts of programming code, which are not formatted according to the specific rules or guidelines of any particular language. While pseudocode might appear similar to proper code at first glance, it will not compile or function - instead, it is intended to serve as a faster method of note taking or communicating about code, as compared to writing out fully functioning example code blocks.

Pseudocode is often used when answering questions about, or providing support for, Visual novel engines. It can also be a useful method for early brainstorming of how certain more-complex coding problems might be solved, especially when designing minigames, quick time events, or complex branching logic.

Pseudocode is also frequently used when writing initial notes about scene direction, especially by those who may not be familiar with the scripting language of the engine being used. It can be helpful to pay less attention to code formatting during the writing process.

Example

The following example pseudocode demonstrates how someone might plan out complex branching logic in a case where there are three love interests.

if e_pts > c_pts AND e_pts > r_pts
   e route
else if c_pts > e_pts AND c_pts > r_pts:
   c route
else if r_pts > c_pts & r_pts > e_pts
   if seen r special scene
      r route
   else
      tiebreaker scene

Note that, while it appears similar to code, it does not match the formatting or syntax of any specific language, and it has some internal inconsistencies (using AND vs & interchangeably, for example). General phrases such as "tiebreaker scene" describe in words what will happen, rather than being the precise lines of code needed to execute those events.