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Python Object-Oriented Python (retired) Hack-n-Slash Game Planning

fahad lashari
fahad lashari
7,693 Points
Posted by fahad lashari
fahad lashari
7,693 Points

Why was the while loop that runs the game implemented into the def __init__() function?

Although I generally do understand that init function is something that is automatically called when the instance of the class is created. Isn't this function normally used for setting attributes. Or is this something like the 'main' function from Java where upon running the programme, this code is the first part that is executed.

Can init be used for anything when you just want to run a specific piece of code first? Could someone please explain this part to me. Apologies if there is an obvious answer. I am a novice at Python and programming in general.

kind regards,

2 Answers

Steven Parker
Steven Parker
231,271 Points
Steven Parker
Steven Parker
231,271 Points

Remember to "think in Python".

One of the first things I learned about Python is to not compare it to other languages and design patterns. There's the "Python way" and then there's everything else. To really do Python well, (or easily!) you have to "think in Python".

In this case, the Game.init function is operating much like a "main" since the class encapsulates the main program functionality. But unlike a "main", the class is explicitly instantiated later in the file. But classes don't always (perhaps not even often) encapsulate program functionality, so the __init__ function might just be used for setting attributes in other cases.

So __init__ it is basically available for any purpose where you want something done on instantiation.

fahad lashari
fahad lashari
7,693 Points
fahad lashari
fahad lashari
7,693 Points

Hi Steve,

Thanks for the brief yet detailed answer. I had originally thought that this very function is only and only used for setting attributes. One more question. Can I for example create a function called:

def set_attributes(self, **kwargs):
     for key, value in kwargs.items():
           setattr(self, key, value)

and then call this in the init function like so:

def __init__(self, **kwargs):
      self.set_attributes(kwargs)

And also; I have another question posted under the "The Final push" video which is the second last step of this track. Are you able to help out?

kind regards,

fahad lashari
fahad lashari
7,693 Points
fahad lashari
fahad lashari
7,693 Points

Hi sorry for the wrong info. The question is regarding the last code challenge. I am not sure where is went I will post it again under the final step video

Alexander Davison
Alexander Davison
65,469 Points
Alexander Davison
Alexander Davison
65,469 Points

__init__ Is a special function that is always called if you create a new instance of the class the __init__ function is in.

Kenneth actually created a new instance of the class at the bottom of the file, that's why the __init__ function is called. :)

I hope you get it. ~Alex

fahad lashari
fahad lashari
7,693 Points
fahad lashari
fahad lashari
7,693 Points

Hi Alex,

Thanks! that is a great simple answer that explains exactly what I couldn't wrap my head around. I have another question posted under the "The Final push" video which is the second last step of this track. Are you able to help out?

kind regards,

fahad lashari
fahad lashari
7,693 Points
fahad lashari
fahad lashari
7,693 Points

Hi sorry for the wrong info. The question is regarding the last code challenge. I am not sure where is went I will post it again under the final step video