What You Should Know About Pyglet vs Panda3D

For budding Python programmers looking to delve into game development, Pyglet with its straightforward installation and no external dependencies is the perfect match. However, for seasoned developers wanting a potent mix of 3D rendering and game development capabilities, Panda3D, despite its steeper learning curve, would prove more robust.

Key Differences Between Pyglet and Panda3D

• Pyglet is purely Python-based, whereas Panda3D supports both Python and C++.
• Panda3D was initially developed by Disney and later open-sourced, while Pyglet is entirely an open-source initiative.
• While both are viable for game development, Panda3D specifically shines in 3D rendering and complex game programming.
• Pyglet simplifies distribution and installation with no external dependencies, Panda3D, on the other hand, includes third-party libraries.
• Panda3D requires a basic knowledge of Python and APIs, making it better suited for professional use, whilst Pyglet is more beginner-friendly.

What Is Pyglet and Who’s It For?

Pyglet is an open-source Python-based library tailored for the development of multimedia applications, games, and GUIs. Supported across Windows, Mac OS, and Linux, this versatile tool boasts notable features such as event handling, joystick control, and OpenGL graphics. Powered by Python 2 and 3, Pyglet’s pure Python codebase delivers high performance for managing complex tasks.

With a focus on simplifying distribution and installation, Pyglet eliminates external dependencies. From popular video games like Battlefield 2 to commercial projects, Pyglet finds varied uses. It is a preferred tool for developers encountering diverse multimedia challenges.

Pros of Pyglet

• Open-source, Python based library
• No external dependencies required
• Versatile applications across varied platforms
• Supports multiple windows and multi-monitor desktops
• Active developer and user community

Cons of Pyglet

• Requires technical expertise to implement efficiently
• May require regular updates with Python version releases

What Is Panda3D and Who’s It For?

Panda3D is a robust game engine specialized in 3D rendering and game development for Python and C++. Initially backed by Disney Interactive, it was later progressed by multiple entities including Carnegie Mellon University. Released in 2002 and refined continuously, it is currently at version 1.10.13 (as of Dec 2022).

Beyond the realms of commercial games, this open-source engine has formed the backbone of university courses and research projects. While it offers a powerhouse of functionality such as 3D audio, networking, AI, and much more, Panda3D does require basic knowledge of Python and APIs. It is an advanced tool best suited for professional use in the realm of 3D game creation.

Pros of Panda3D

• Comprehensive 3D game development tool
• Supports both Python and C++ languages
• Backed by an active open-source community
• Automatic management of engine structures
• Detailed documentation and community support available

Cons of Panda3D

• Not for novices, mandates basic knowledge of Python and APIs
• Complexities could arise while dealing with third-party libraries

Pyglet vs Panda3D: Pricing

Both Pyglet and Panda3D are offered under BSD open-source licenses, allowing free usage for commercial and open-source projects.

Pyglet

Pyglet boasts a BSD open-source license which translates to cost-free acquisition of this versatile technology. Characterized by freedom, it permits unrestricted application in both commercial and open-source ventures. Deployment and installation costs are further curtailed by its lack of external dependencies.

Panda3D

Similar to Pyglet, Panda3D operates under a revised BSD license implying zero procurement costs. Accessibility is further enhanced by its open-source nature, making it freely available for large commercial games, university courses, and open-source projects.

Code Examples for Pyglet & Panda3D

Pyglet

Creating custom shapes with mouse actions. This code displays a window, in which, when left mouse button is pressed, it creates a point and as the button is held, it creates lines from the point to wherever the mouse is moved. Software prerequisites: Python and Pyglet.

import pyglet
window = pyglet.window.Window()
label = pyglet.text.Label('Hello, world', font_name='Times New Roman', font_size=36, x=window.width//2, y=window.height//2, anchor_x='center', anchor_y='center')

@window.event
def on_draw():
    window.clear()
    label.draw()

@window.event
def on_mouse_press(x, y, button, modifiers):
    if button == pyglet.window.mouse.LEFT:  # Left mouse button
        print ('Creating a line starts at ({}, {})'.format(x, y))  # Print start point
    elif button == pyglet.window.mouse.RIGHT:  # Right mouse button
        print('Creating a line ends at ({}, {})'.format(x, y))  # Print end point

pyglet.app.run()
    

Panda3D

This code snippet loads and displays a 3D model. It further makes it spin around its own axis. The sample model is a cartoon panda. Software prerequisites: Python and Panda3D. An environment capable of running a window for 3D display is assumed.

from panda3d.core import Point3 
from direct.showbase.ShowBase import ShowBase 
  
class MyApp(ShowBase): 
    def __init__(self): 
        ShowBase.__init__(self) 
        self.environ = self.loader.loadModel("models/environment")
        self.environ.reparentTo(self.render)  
        self.environ.setScale(0.25, 0.25, 0.25)    
        self.environ.setPos(-8, 42, 0)   
        self.panda = self.loader.loadModel("models/panda") 
        self.panda.reparentTo(self.render)   
        self.panda.setScale(0.005, 0.005, 0.005)  
        self.panda.setPos(0, 0, 0)
        self.taskMgr.add(self.spinCameraTask, "spinCameraTask") 
  
    def spinCameraTask(self, task): 
        angleDegrees = task.time * 6.0 
        angleRadians = angleDegrees * (3.14159 / 180.0)   
        self.camera.setPos(20 * sin(angleRadians), -20.0 * cos(angleRadians), 3)   
        self.camera.lookAt(Point3(0, 0, 0))  
        return Task.cont   
  
app = MyApp() 
app.run()
    

Deciding Between Pyglet and Panda3D

Choosing a game development tool? The verdict relies on your needs and expertise. Consider our tailored recommendations below.

For Lightweight Designers

Pyglet is ideal given its pythonic elegance and easy installations. With no external dependencies, Pyglet simplifies distribution and attracts small team projects.

Python-first Developers

Pyglet shines for its pure Python base, hence most Python developers will find it synergistically compatible.

Intensive 3D Game Developers

Panda3D, given its roots in 3D rendering and aggressive game development, is a better fit for high-end game creators.

Commercial and Large-scale Projects

Pick Panda3D. Having weathered the stresses of large commercial games, it is a tested choice. Plus, it has robust technical and community support.

In essence, for lightweight, Pythonic game design, choose Pyglet. For high-end 3D, large-scale game development, Panda3D outshines. Make a fact-based selection to ensure ease and efficacy.