Out of the box: Learn Functional Programming in a Fun and Engaging Way through Factorio: A Creative Video Game Approach
Tags: games, factorio, beginners, programming
Published: 2023-03-17 01:11:36

Hey! Want to learn how to code in a different and fun way? Why not try playing Factorio! This cool game challenges you to build and manage a complex production system where you can break down the process into smaller functions. Sounds complicated, but don’t worry, learning to code can be kinda fun!

So, let’s say you’re already familiar with the basic mechanics of the game, like building and managing productions systems, and now you want to get into more advanced programming techniques. In Factorio, you can experiment with different programming patterns, like using recursion or creating functions, to automate the production process - basically making the game easier and more efficient to play.

And the best part? The game gives instant feedback! So, let’s say you made a change in one area of the production line, but it unexpectedly affected the entire system, you’ll know immediately! This helps you learn how to make robust and efficient functions and how to create systems that can handle unanticipated changes in input data.

![Image description](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/6jaxg0gtv00ke9944dwh.png)

**Monads and Functors**

Monads and functors are two programming concepts that are commonly used in functional programming. Luckily, both of these concepts can be easily applied in Factorio.

Monads can be used to represent a sequence of actions that need to be executed in a specific order. In Factorio, a common example of a monad is a sequence of machines that produce raw materials, refine them, and produce finished products. Each machine can be represented by a monad, which ensures that the sequence of actions is executed correctly.

Functors, on the other hand, can transform one type of data into another. In Factorio, one example of a functor is a conveyor belt that transports raw materials from one area of the production system to another. The conveyor belt takes raw materials and transforms them into different types of materials by moving them through a series of machines.

Now, let's talk about how to use monads and functors in Factorio. To apply monads, you need to identify a sequence of actions that needs to be executed in a specific order. In Factorio, you would then represent each action with a machine and connect them together in the correct order using conveyor belts. This ensures that the sequence of actions is executed accurately, resulting in a robust production system.

To use functors, you need to identify which type of data needs to be transformed and how. For example, if you have a raw material that needs to be refined, you would use machines that transform the raw material into a finished product, such as smelters. You would then link the machines together using conveyor belts to create a process of transformation.

Factorio also has a sandbox mode, so you can experiment with different programming patterns without worrying about the game’s time limits. It’s the perfect environment for you to practice different programming patterns!

In conclusion, Factorio provides an exciting and engaging way to learn different programming patterns. With multiple programming patterns available to learn, like the Factory Pattern or the Builder Pattern, you can easily experiment and refine your skills with the game's complex production system while having blast at the same time!

Oh, and one more thing before I end this article! I'm not the only one who thinks that Factorio is a great way to practice functional programming. [Bartosz Milewski](https://bartoszmilewski.com/2021/02/16/functorio/), an experienced programmer, has written an extensive blog on this very topic! He explores different programming concepts and how they can be applied in Factorio.

![Image description](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/j98wtb3lns6sie286te7.png)


So, if you need more guidance or resources, check out his blog for some fantastic learning material.