inform ☆
« Back to VersTracker
Description:
Writing system for interactive fiction based on natural language
Type: Cask  |  Latest Version: 10.1.2,1_82_3@0  |  Tracked Since: Dec 28, 2025
Links: Homepage  |  formulae.brew.sh
Category: Developer tools
Tags: interactive-fiction game-development compiler natural-language text-adventure
Install: brew install --cask inform
About:
Inform is a sophisticated writing system and compiler for creating interactive fiction and text adventures. It translates natural language-like source code into optimized virtual machine code, enabling authors to craft complex, branching narratives with minimal programming overhead. Its powerful standard library handles world simulation, parser logic, and player interaction, making it the industry standard for parser-based IF development.
Key Features:
  • Natural language-based source code syntax
  • Cross-platform compiler generating Z-code or Glulx
  • Comprehensive world simulation standard library
  • Built-in debugging and testing tools
  • Extensive documentation and community resources
Use Cases:
  • Creating interactive fiction and text adventure games
  • Developing educational narrative experiences
  • Prototyping parser-based game mechanics
  • Preserving interactive storytelling techniques
Alternatives:
  • TADS – Object-oriented alternative with C-like syntax
  • Twine – Visual, node-based hypertext system, not parser-based
Version History
Detected Version Rev Change Commit
Sep 15, 2025 12:19pm 10.1.2,1_82_3 0 VERSION_BUMP 5b17c0d6
Aug 5, 2025 2:19pm 10.1.2,1_82_3 0 VERSION_BUMP 6e24ef89
« Back to VersTracker  |  Browse Packages  |  About