IF: Your Code's Decision Maker
Want to add some smarts to your Commodore 64 programs? Meet the IF command, your decision-making powerhouse! This essential tool allows your code to evaluate conditions and choose different paths based on the results. Think of it as the crossroads in your code, where different routes lead to different outcomes!
Syntax
IF <condition> THEN <linenumber>
IF <condition> THEN GOTO <linenumber>
IF <condition> THEN <statement>
Where:
- <condition>: An expression that evaluates to either true or false.
- THEN <statement>: The code to execute if the condition is true.
Applications
The IF command opens up a world of possibilities, allowing you to:
- Create conditional logic: Make your programs respond intelligently to different situations.
- Validate input: Check if user input meets certain criteria before proceeding.
- Implement branching narratives: Create interactive stories where the player's choices affect the outcome.
- Build game logic: Determine win/loss conditions, enemy behavior, and more.
Code Examples
1. Simple Comparison:
10 INPUT "Enter a number: "; N
20 IF N > 10 THEN PRINT "Number is greater than 10"
30 IF N < 10 THEN PRINT "Number is less than 10"
40 IF N = 10 THEN PRINT "Number is equal to 10"
This example compares the inputted number to 10 and prints a corresponding message.
2. Multiple Conditions (AND/OR):
10 INPUT "Enter age: "; A
20 INPUT "Enter grade: "; G
30 IF A >= 18 AND G >= 12 THEN PRINT "Eligible for college"
40 IF A < 18 OR G < 12 THEN PRINT "Not eligible for college"
This snippet demonstrates how to use multiple conditions with AND and OR operators.
3. Branching with virtual ELSE:
10 INPUT "Do you like pizza? (Y/N): "; L$
20 IF L$="Y" THEN 50
30 rem simulated ELSE
40 PRINT "That's too bad." : end
50 PRINT "Great!"
Here, the simulated ELSE clause provides an alternative action if the condition is not met.
IF in the Wild: The Adventure Game Navigator
Imagine you're creating a text-based adventure game. The IF command would be your key to creating a branching storyline, where each choice the player makes leads to different consequences and ultimately different endings.
Don't let your programs be passive! With the IF command, you can empower your Commodore 64 to make decisions, react to events, and adapt to changing circumstances. It's like giving your code a mind of its own, opening up a world of possibilities for creating interactive, intelligent, and engaging programs. So embrace the power of IF and let your creativity flow!
