Text effects

This page is part of the GenPy Ren'Py learning path. It focuses on practical Ren'Py 8.x production and links each concept back to the GenPy workflow.

Learning goals

• Use text effects sparingly for readability.
• Know the Ren'Py version required for text shaders.
• Plan fallbacks for older projects.

Core syntax

• textshader
• default_textshader
• {w}
• {p}
• custom text tags

Runnable example

define config.default_textshader = "wave:10"

Study outline

• Start with the smallest example for text effects.
• Test the key terms in a clean Ren'Py project: textshader, default_textshader, {w}, {p}.
• Move the pattern back into your real project only after the example runs.
• Use GenPy docs and validation to keep the feature connected to story, assets, and export readiness.

Common pitfalls

• Test the smallest working script before layering on visual or UI complexity.
• Run Ren'Py Lint before release builds, even when the script appears to run locally.
• Keep examples in standard .rpy files so they remain editable outside GenPy.

Official references

• Ren'Py text reference: https://www.renpy.org/doc/html/textshaders.html
• Ren'Py text reference: https://www.renpy.org/doc/html/text.html
• Ren'Py text reference: https://www.renpy.org/doc/html/custom_text_tags.html

How this fits in GenPy

• Use Code mode for exact text tag syntax and Validation before export.
• Use GenPy docs to connect text effects with dialogue and GUI style.

Recommended GenPy docs:

• Code editor
• GUI Theme
• Script Validation