🐍 PDF Snake Game

An innovative implementation of the classic Snake game that runs entirely within a PDF file using PDF forms and JavaScript.

📋 Overview

This project demonstrates the capabilities of PDF as an interactive format by implementing a complete Snake game within a standard PDF document. The game leverages PDF forms and embedded JavaScript to create an interactive gaming experience in an unexpected medium.

🎮 Features

The Snake game implementation includes:

• A complete Snake game playable directly in Adobe Acrobat Reader
• WASD keyboard controls for navigation
• Score tracking and game progression
• Food generation and snake growth mechanics
• Collision detection for walls and self-intersection

🔧 Technical Implementation

The game is built using several PDF-specific techniques:

1. Form Field Grid: A 20×20 grid of interactive form elements creates the game field
2. JavaScript Game Logic: Embedded JavaScript handles:
   • Snake movement and growth
   • Food spawning
   • Collision detection
   • Score tracking
3. PDF Interactive Elements: Utilizes buttons and form fields for rendering

🚀 Getting Started

Prerequisites

• Python 3.x
• Adobe Acrobat Reader (or any PDF reader that supports JavaScript execution)

Installation and Play

1. Generate the game PDF:

   python main.py
   

2. Open out_snake_game.pdf with Adobe Acrobat Reader or a chromium based browser

3. Click "Start" to begin the game

4. Control the snake with:

   • WASD keys
   • On-screen control buttons

Customization

The game can be customized by modifying these variables in the source code:

• PX_SIZE: Pixel size (default: 15)
• GRID_WIDTH: Game grid width (default: 20)
• GRID_HEIGHT: Game grid height (default: 20)
• GRID_OFF_X/Y: Grid position offsets (defaults: 150, 250)
• TICK_INTERVAL: Game update interval in milliseconds (default: 180)

⚙️ Development Details

The project was built without external PDF libraries, using a custom approach:

1. A Python script generates the PDF file with all necessary objects
2. JavaScript is embedded for game logic
3. Form elements are programmatically created to serve as visual elements

⚠️ Known Limitations

• Performance depends on the PDF reader's JavaScript engine capabilities
• Some PDF readers may block JavaScript execution for security reasons
• Limited mobile device support
• Not all PDF readers support the required interactive features

🔍 Future Development Opportunities

• Sound effects integration
• Multiple difficulty levels
• Local high score tracking
• Additional game modes

⚖️ License

This project is open source and available under the MIT License.