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For example, I wasn't able to run config.jar with my JRE. I don't know if it needs a version >8, or if I'm even supposed to run it. It wasn't clear from the stack trace:
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The unfortunate side effect is that your download size increases substantially, but that is a legacy concern at this point. I think most engines that people create games with nowadays bundle a runtime of some sort. In the past, I have created Windows executables for Java games that bundle a JRE with this tool: http://launch4j.sourceforge.net/ It is an OK experience.
Thanks this is helpful - yeah I think my source requires a very specific version of Java to compile, so it wouldn't surprise me if getting the right JRE was a bit finnicky. I'll look into that, I don't mind having to bundle together the JRE because I already have to include the whole Scala library :V. Although for the config.jar thing it looks like I just forgot to include something in the rar (you are supposed to be able to run it to change the controls), silly mistake, I'll try to fix that soon.
Hrm, yeah. I assume I just do "java -jar bird.jar" in a terminal? That's definitely going to be difficult for some people.
does just double clicking the jar not work if you have java installed?
i appreciate the dls tho, in general im not sure what the best way to test this kind of thing is b/c idk what it's like on other people's computers. i guess i could like... uninstall java on my computer? i do want my semi-normie friends to be able to play it