Creating the Finished Product



In general, you should use the following steps to create a complete Java game from start to finish:

1) Set any security permissions you will need with the policytool utility.

2) Write and test Java code using appletviewer.

3) Archive your game with the jar utility or another archive tool.

4) Sign the generated .jar file using the jarsigner utility.

5) Create a Java 2 compatible .html file using an .html conversion utility.

6) Enjoy distributing and playing your new Java game!

Indeed, archiving and signing your applets before distribution adds some work on your part, but these steps are necessary to deploy your games effectively.

I insist on testing games with the appletviewer utility only as a matter of convenience. Games can be viewed with the appletviewer without needing a converted .html file. I would also hold off on creating the signed .jar file until the end because it is not convenient to update your code archive every time you recompile. In all, just focus on the overall game play first and worry about a polished presentation when you are ready to distribute the finished game.