XNI
XNI Framework: XNA for iOS
Overview
The XNI Framework is an iOS static library designed for game development, implemented in Objective-C using the iOS SDK. It replicates key components of the XNA Framework 4.0, providing classes and systems for game development, such as `Game`, `SpriteBatch`, `ContentManager`, and game components and services.
The current version is **0.4.4** and, while not a full implementation of XNA, it includes enough functionality to develop and publish games on the App Store.
Features
- **Graphics:**
- OpenGL ES 1.1 (fixed-pipeline) implementation of `GraphicsDevice` with full 3D graphics support.
- **Audio:**
- Sound capabilities implemented using OpenAL.
- **Game Components:**
- Core XNA systems such as game components and services.
- **Content Management:**
- Basic support for `.x` text-based 3D model loading.
- **Planned Features:**
- Early exploration of GamerServices to integrate Game Center functionalities, resembling Xbox Live Achievements and Leaderboards.
Motivation
The creator, Matej Jan, has been a long-time advocate of the XNA Framework, praising its clean object-oriented design and robust architecture. When shifting development focus from Xbox Live Indie Games (XBLIG) to iOS, he sought a similarly polished framework for iOS. Dissatisfied with existing options like TouchXNA and ExEn, he decided to develop his own native solution using Objective-C.
Limitations
- The framework is still in early development and lacks some features of XNA, such as full GamerServices support. - Basic 3D model handling with limited functionality.
Usage
The framework has been used to release several games on the App Store. While setup instructions in English were initially absent, they are now provided for easier integration into Xcode.
Current Version
Version 0.4.4
For updates and further details, refer to the most recent announcements.