Experiments and narrative

Some design work benefits from a calculation or a specialist authoring tool. GDE keeps the inputs and returned files attached to the project.

Run a numerical experiment

An .experiment.json file defines a command, arguments, inputs, expected outputs, units, assumptions and a timeout. Opening the file does not execute it.

1. Inspect the definition and inputs.
2. Choose Run calculation and review the command that will execute.
3. Read Chart, Data and Log for the retained result.
4. Change an input deliberately and run again if you need a comparison.

The result retains the definition, input and output identities. Data preserves the original CSV or JSON values; a chart is a visual projection of those values.

The example compares illustrative lantern arithmetic. It is not a game simulation or engine benchmark.

Compare A and B

Select two retained runs for A/B comparison. Check their units and exact values in Data before drawing a conclusion from the curves. A changed source or output should be treated as changed evidence, not silently attributed to the earlier run.

The bundled lantern calculation names its optional Node.js requirement. Other definitions may need different installed tools. Requirements and missing tools are specific to the operation you want to perform.

Narrative tool handoff

A .narrative.json profile identifies the narrative source, tool choice and returned files. Choose tool records an installed executable for this machine. Open in tool opens that source in the selected external editor.

Use Check returned files after working in the tool. GDE reports whether the expected files are missing, unchanged, changed or newly created.

The initial handoff supports an Inky-oriented .ink workflow, with explicit profiles for Yarn and articy workflows. GDE does not bundle those editors or implement their interpreters, licensing or compilation pipeline. Select and configure the tool you actually use.

Keep narrative intent and review notes in project pages. The specialist tool remains responsible for its executable narrative output.