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Learn how to start creating 2D apps in Ruby

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Set up your Ruby environment

Ruby 2D makes use of low-level graphics and hardware, so you’ll need a Ruby environment that can build native extensions. If you’re new to Ruby and need some help, check out these guides: macOS, Windows, and Linux.

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There's a new way to install Ruby 2D! On macOS and Windows, you no longer have to install any dependencies — just go ahead and install the gem using any Ruby command prompt you'd like. On Linux, you'll still have to install some required packages, see below.

On Linux, you’ll need to install a few packages before installing the gem, see the instructions here.

Install the gem

Now you’re ready to install the Ruby 2D gem! On your command line, run:

gem install ruby2d
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Having problems installing the gem? Chat with us on Gitter.

Write your first 2D app

After installing the gem, create a new Ruby script called triangle.rb and add the following two lines.

require 'ruby2d'
show

This is the simplest Ruby 2D application you can write. The require statement adds the Ruby 2D domain-specific language and classes, and the show method tells Ruby 2D to show the empty window. Let’s make this window more interesting by giving it a name and adding a shape. We’ll use the set method to change the title of the window and add a colorful triangle.

require 'ruby2d'

set title: "Hello Triangle"

Triangle.new(
  x1: 320, y1:  50,
  x2: 540, y2: 430,
  x3: 100, y3: 430,
  color: ['red', 'green', 'blue']
)

show

Great! Now save your script and run it on the command line using:

ruby triangle.rb

You should see this impressive triangle…

Congrats, you just built your first Ruby 2D app! 🎉

What’s next?

There’s a lot Ruby 2D can do. Check out the showcase to see examples of what you can build. To keep learning, continue to the next topic or select one from the contents menu at the top. 👆