Cocos, an open source, cross-platform game development toolset, can now leverage existing JavaScript to develop Windows apps using Cocos2d-x. Microsoft and the Cocos community forged a partnership in 2013, with MS Open Tech providing Cocos developers with tools and support to build apps for Windows, including universal app support to target both Windows Phone and Windows Store apps with one C++ solution. With these new Cocos2dJS tools, developers can benefit from the combination of the simplicity of JavaScript, along with the robust performance of the C++ engine leveraged from within existing code.
As with other Cocos open source projects, the bits as well as detailed instructions on how to setup projects can be accessed via GitHub. Also included is a sample JavaScript game, ‘Moonwarrior,’ which offers a good overview of the basic techniques that may be used with Cocos2d-JS. You’ll want to reference this sample to learn how to use different graphics or menu scenes, the HUD and sprite layer within the game scene, as well as manipulate sound and a variety of inputs.
To learn more:
- For details on the Cocos2d-JS announcement, visit the MS Open Tech blog
- Find the open source project and sample game at JavaScript support for Cocos2d-x
- For C++ projects continue to use Cocos2D-x v3.4 on Github
Want to know more about Cocos2d-x? Microsoft Virtual Academy has a Building a game with Cocos2d-x for Windows Devices session available, including a walkthrough on coding, graphical assets, versioning, and monetization support.
“Unleash the Power of Cocos and Windows” contest
To reward developers for building innovative Cocos apps and games for Windows, Microsoft and Chukong Technology invite developers to submit their mobile game ideas for a chance to win cash prizes. Entries must be received by March 31, 2015, and will be reviewed by a panel of Cocos and Microsoft judges. Criteria include quality (25%), performance (25%), creativity (25%) and originality (25%).
The first place winner will receive $25,000 USD. Second place receives $15,000 USD and third place winners take home $3,300 USD each.* Submissions can be either original games created with Cocos or games ported to Windows or Windows Phone from existing games published on other platforms.
*For details, see official rules at the Windows Cocos contest page.