Tool Others HTML Onhold Capsule VN Engine - a modern, web-based tool

Laetits

Newbie
Sep 17, 2021
27
45
189
Hey everyone,

I know Ren'Py is the standard for creating visual novels, but it's not exactly the simplest tool, and lately I've been hearing a lot about HTML game development.

So, here's my little contribution: a complete engine for creating HTML visual novels.

Feel free to try it out and tell me what you think and what I could improve. This is only version 1, and where there's a will, there's a way :D

Download link:


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Capsule VN Engine

Capsule VN Engine is a modern, web-based tool designed with one obsession: removing the friction between your idea and your players. Whether you are a seasoned developer looking for a rapid prototyping tool or a complete beginner writing your first interactive story, Capsule handles the technical complexity so you can focus on creating.

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The Philosophy: Why "Capsule"?

The name "Capsule" defines the engine's unique architecture and purpose:
  1. All-In-One Containment: Just like a space Capsule carries everything needed for a mission, a Capsule game file (game.html) contains your entire game—engine, assets, scripts, and save system.
  2. Zero Dependencies: A Capsule game doesn't need a server, a database, or an installation wizard. It is hermetic and autonomous.
  3. Ultimate Portability: A Capsule is made to travel. Send your game via email, drop it on Discord, or host it on any static web page. If a device has a web browser, it can run your Capsule.
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Bridging the Gap: For Beginners & Developers

Capsule VN Engine was built to solve specific pain points for both ends of the spectrum.

For Beginners: "Zero Code, Zero Stress"
If you have never written a line of code in your life, this engine is for you.
  • Visual Interface: Everything is done via the Studio interface. You type text, choose colors with a picker, and select images from your folder.
  • Real-Time Feedback: The "What You See Is What You Get" (WYSIWYG) preview window lets you see your changes instantly. No need to "compile" or wait.
  • No Setup Required: Forget about installing Python, setting up a local server, or configuring libraries. Open the Studio, and you are ready to create.
For Developers: "Streamlined Efficiency"
For experienced devs, Capsule acts as a powerful accelerator.
  • Rapid Prototyping: innovative architecture allows you to build and export a playable build in seconds.
  • Asset Management: The engine handles Base64 encoding automatically, removing the need for manual asset bundling or path management.
  • Clean Architecture: The output is standard, clean HTML/JS. It’s lightweight, performant, and follows modern web standards without the bloat of heavy frameworks.
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Key Features

Storytelling & Gameplay
  • Dynamic Dialogues: Smooth typewriter text effects with animated indicators.
  • Choice System: Easily create branching narratives. Choices can jump to any scene or even jump to another HTML file.
  • Native Bilingual Support: Write in two languages simultaneously (e.g., English/French). Players can toggle languages instantly via the in-game menu.
Visual & Audio Immersion
  • Rich Media Support: Use images or looping videos (WebM/MP4) for backgrounds.
  • Atmospheric Overlays: Add rain, snow, or texture effects using video overlays with screen blending.
  • Character Staging: Position, scale, and animate (Fade/Shake) characters with simple sliders.
  • Cinematic Filters: Apply real-time CSS filters (Noir, Sepia, Blur) to change the mood without editing your assets.
  • Smart Audio: BGM loops seamlessly across scenes, and SFX are synchronized with text.
Scalability & System
  • Infinite Scalability: While designed for single-file portability, Capsule supports linking multiple HTML files. You can split a massive saga into Chapter1.html and Chapter2.html.
  • Seamless Transitions: Player variables and inventory states are automatically saved and transferred when jumping between game files.
  • Browser-Based Saves: 3 persistent save slots stored in localStorage.
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The Workflow
  1. Create: Use the engine to write your scenes and design your visuals.
  2. Export: Click EXPORT. The engine encapsulates your creative work into a single game.html file.
  3. Distribute: Share that single file. No installers, no zip files to extract.
  4. Iterate: Need to make a change? Simply use IMPORT to load your game back into the engine, tweak it, and export again.
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Some screenshots


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Download link:
 
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