How to Install PyGame in PyCharm Quickly

If you’re ready to dive into Python game development, understanding how to install pygame in PyCharm is the first crucial step.
Pygame is an excellent library for creating video games, and PyCharm, a robust Integrated Development Environment (IDE) from JetBrains, is the perfect tool to facilitate your coding journey.
First, Pygame allows you to harness the power of Python to build dynamic and interactive applications, letting you incorporate elements like graphics, sound, and animation. Using PyCharm simplifies managing packages, dependencies, and your development environment.
In this guide, you will learn how to use Pygame with PyCharm, including setting up a virtual environment and installing the necessary packages. By the end, you’ll be equipped to start building your own projects with comprehensive step-by-step instructions. I’ll cover:
- Setting up PyCharm and configuring your Python interpreter.
- Creating a new PyCharm project with Pygame.
- Installing Pygame via the terminal or using package management tools like pip.
How To Install Pygame In PyCharm: Quick Workflow
To install Pygame in PyCharm, follow these steps, which apply to both Windows and macOS:
Step-by-Step Installation Guide
- Open PyCharm:
- Launch PyCharm and open your project.
- Access Settings:
- Navigate to
File > Settings
(orPyCharm > Preferences
on macOS) to open the settings menu.
- Navigate to
- Select Project Interpreter:
- In the settings window, find and select your current project from the left sidebar.
- Click on the Python Interpreter tab.
- Add Pygame:
- Click on the + icon (Add) located on the right side of the interpreter settings window.
- In the search bar that appears, type Pygame.
- Install Package:
- Select Pygame from the list of available packages and click on the Install Package button.
- Wait for the installation to complete, and then close all popup windows.
- Verify Installation:
- To check if Pygame is installed correctly, create a new Python file in your project and add the following line of code:
import pygame
- Run the file; if there are no errors, Pygame has been successfully installed.
- To check if Pygame is installed correctly, create a new Python file in your project and add the following line of code:
Additional Tips
- If you encounter issues with installation, ensure that your Python interpreter is correctly set up and that you have an active virtual environment if needed.
- For command-line enthusiasts, you can also install Pygame using pip in the terminal with:
pip install pygame
Make sure to run this command in the terminal associated with your project’s virtual environment.
Preparing Your System for Installation
Ensuring Python Installation
Verifying Python installation
To get the ball rolling, first ensure Python is up and running on your system. Open your terminal or command prompt and type:
python --version
If Python’s presence is verified, you’ll see the version number. However, if not, let’s move on to how to install Python.
How to install Python if not present
Head over to the official Python website and download the latest version. Follow the installation prompts. Remember to check the box that says “Add Python to PATH” during installation. This ensures that you can access Python from the command line easily.
Verifying PIP Installation
Role of PIP in installing Python packages
PIP is your gateway to installing Python packages. Without it, adding libraries like PyGame would be a hassle. PIP simplifies everything by automating the download and installation process.
Checking and installing PIP if required
To verify PIP’s presence, type:
pip --version
If it shows a version number, you’re set. If not, download get-pip.py from here and run:
python get-pip.py
This should set up PIP perfectly.
Recommended Python Versions
Supported versions for PyGame
For PyGame, it’s crucial to be on the right Python version. Generally, Python 3.6 to Python 3.9 are recommended. Stray from these, and you might encounter compatibility issues.
Special considerations for Mac and Linux
Mac users, double-check that you’re not using the system Python. Instead, download a version from the Python website.
On Linux, you might need some additional packages. Use:
sudo apt-get update
sudo apt-get install python3-dev python3-pip
Installing PyGame

Installation Steps
Using PIP to install PyGame
Alright, let’s get into it. Open up your terminal or command prompt. Type the following command:
pip install pygame
Hit enter, and watch the magic happen. PIP will fetch the latest PyGame package and install it. Simple, right?
Ensuring successful installation
Now, just to be sure everything landed correctly, run a quick test. Fire up the Python interpreter by typing:
python
Then import PyGame:
import pygame
No errors? You’re good to go. If something went wrong, you might need to double-check if PIP is correctly set up or if there are any dependency issues.
Platform-Specific Considerations
Windows installation steps
Windows users, you have it a bit easier. The command line method typically works without hitches. However, if issues arise, ensure that your PATH variable includes directories for both Python and PIP.
Update might be needed:
python -m pip install --upgrade pip
Try the installation command once more if problems persist.
MacOS-specific instructions
Mac folks, the process is similar but can occasionally toss in a few curveballs. Firstly, ensure you have Homebrew
installed. If not:
/bin/bash -c "$(curl -fsSL https://raw.githubusercontent.com/Homebrew/install/HEAD/install.sh)"
Then, update Python and PIP with:
brew install python
python -m pip install --upgrade pip
Afterward, proceed with the PyGame installation command. For some cases, Xcode Command Line Tools may need to be updated:
xcode-select --install
Commands for Linux systems
Linux users, the journey involves a few more steps. Start by updating your package lists:
sudo apt-get update
Install essential build tools:
sudo apt-get install python3-dev python3-pip libsdl-image1.2-dev libsdl-mixer1.2-dev libsdl-ttf2.0-dev libsdl1.2-dev libsmpeg-dev libportmidi-dev libavformat-dev libswscale-dev
Then, use PIP to install PyGame:
python3 -m pip install pygame
Installing PyGame Zero
What is PyGame Zero and its relation to PyGame
PyGame Zero is a ready-made framework for making games easier to develop in Python. Think of it as PyGame’s more user-friendly sibling.
PyGame requires setting up everything manually, while PyGame Zero simplifies this by handling the boilerplate code. Essentially, it’s built on PyGame but designed for educational purposes and< quicker prototyping.
Installation Steps
Let’s jump straight to it. Open your terminal or command prompt. Here’s your command:
pip install pgzero
Hit enter. Wait for the confirmation that it’s installed. That’s it. Easy, right?
Using package managers like Thonny, PyCharm, and PyScripter
If you’re using an IDE like Thonny, PyCharm, or PyScripter, the process is a touch different but still straightforward.
- Thonny: You can install packages directly via Thonny’s package manager. Just go to Tools > Manage Packages. Type
pgzero
and hit install. - PyCharm: This IDE handles this like a pro. Open the terminal within PyCharm, and use the familiar:
pip install pgzero
Alternatively, navigate through File > Settings > Project > Project Interpreter, and add
pgzero
from there. - PyScripter: Access Tools > Tools Configurations > Python Tools, and execute:
pip install pgzero
Boom. Done.
Special Cases for Raspberry Pi
Default installation in Raspbian Jessie
Good news if you’re on a Raspberry Pi running Raspbian Jessie – PyGame Zero comes pre-installed. So, minimal work here. It’s ready out-of-the-box.
Verifying installation on Raspberry Pi
Just to be absolutely certain, let’s do a quick check. Pop open the terminal and type:
python3 -m pgzero
Setting Up the Development Environment
IDE-Specific Configuration
Configuring Thonny for PyGame Zero
Let’s dive into Thonny. Open it up, and head over to Tools > Manage Packages.
Type in pgzero
and hit install. Check your installed packages list to make sure it’s added. Thonny is now ripe and ready for PyGame Zero development.
Setting up PyCharm
Time to tackle PyCharm, a favorite. First, open your terminal within PyCharm. Here’s where it gets fun. Type:
pip install pgzero
Note: For those looking for how to install pygame in PyCharm, follow a similar method but search PyGame instead.
For the full setup experience, navigate through File > Settings > Project > Project Interpreter. Add pgzero
from there if you’re more GUI-inclined.
Using PyScripter for installation and setup
PyScripter isn’t left behind. Open it, go to Tools > Tools Configurations > Python Tools. Plug in this command:
pip install pgzero
PyScripter takes care of the rest. Always verify the installation by checking the installed packages list.
Creating a Project Structure
Recommended folder and file organization
Organization is key. Start with a clean, intuitive structure:
- project_root/
- main.py – Your central script.
- assets/
- images/ – All visual elements here.
- sounds/ – Store your audio files here.
Having separate directories for images and sounds keeps things tidy. Trust me, it helps in the long run.
Adding sample resources (images and sounds)
Nothing brings a project to life like engaging visuals and immersive sounds. Drop a placeholder image into assets/images and a sample sound into assets/sounds. This setup keeps your project modular and scales efficiently as complexity grows.
Testing Your Installation
Verifying PyGame Installation
Importing the PyGame library in a terminal
First things first – let’s see if PyGame is ready to go. Open your terminal or command prompt and type:
python
This gets you into the Python interpreter. Now, type:
import pygame
If you see no errors, you’re on the right path. If errors crop up, you might need to revisit your installation steps. That might sound annoying, but it helps to make sure everything is compatible with your setup.
Running a basic PyGame script
Great, import works. Next up, let’s bring a small script to life. Exit the Python shell (exit()
) and create a new Python file (test_pygame.py
). Paste this in:
import pygame
pygame.init()
screen = pygame.display.set_mode((640, 480))
pygame.display.set_caption("PyGame Setup Test")
running = True
while running:
for event in pygame.event.get():
if event.type == pygame.QUIT:
running = False
pygame.quit()
Run that script via:
python test_pygame.py
You should see a window pop up, confirming your PyGame setup is legit. If nothing appears or errors show, ensure you have the right Python version and all dependencies installed.
Verifying PyGame Zero Installation
Writing and running a simple PyGame Zero script
PyGame Zero time. Create a new Python file (test_pgzero.py
). Try this code:
import pgzrun
WIDTH = 800
HEIGHT = 600
def draw():
screen.fill((255, 0, 0))
pgzrun.go()
Run it with:
python test_pgzero.py
A red window should appear. If it does, PyGame Zero is ready to roll.
Troubleshooting common issues
If anything goes sideways, check these:
- Missing Packages: Ensure
pgzero
and related libraries are installed. Recheck withpip list
. - IDE Configuration: Sometimes, IDE settings block the execution. Cross-check configurations.
- Dependencies: Make sure dependencies are installed. Update your Python or PIP if needed.
Optimizing Development with Linting Tools
Configuring flake8/pyflakes for PyGame Zero
Adding PyGame Zero built-ins to flake8 configuration
Let’s tighten up our code with some linting. Configuration is vital. Start with flake8. Open or create a .flake8
file in your project root.
Add these lines:
[flake8]
builtins = Actor, animate, clock, images, keyboard, music, screen, sounds
Why? These names make flake8 aware of PyGame Zero’s built-ins, minimizing false positives.
Setting up environment variables for Pyflakes
Pyflakes more your style? No worries. Environment variables can customize its behavior.
In your terminal, type:
export PYFLAKES_BUILTINS=Actor,animate,clock,images,keyboard,music,screen,sounds
This tells Pyflakes about the PyGame Zero built-ins, flagging fewer issues in your code.
IDE Integration
Using linting tools within IDEs
IDE time. Whether you’re in PyCharm, VS Code, Thonny, or any other, linting tools slot right in.
- PyCharm: Go to Settings > Editor > Inspections, tick flake8 or Pyflakes. Your code’s now as clean as your design.
- VS Code: Head over to Extensions, install the Python extension. Then, within settings, set your linter to flake8 or Pyflakes.
- Thonny: It has built-in support. Navigate to Tools > Options > Assistant and enable the linter of choice.
Ensuring compatibility with PyGame Zero-specific syntax
Ensuring your linter doesn’t grumble over PyGame Zero-specific syntax is crucial.
Double-check that your configuration, whether for flake8 or Pyflakes, acknowledges those built-ins:
- PyCharm: Confirm under Settings > Languages & Frameworks > Python. Fine-tune as needed.
- VS Code: Verify settings in
.vscode/settings.json
:"python.linting.flake8Args": ["--builtins=Actor,animate,clock,images,keyboard,music,screen,sounds"]
- Thonny: Leverage Options > Interpreter, align settings to ensure smooth scripting.
That’s the key—to keep the linting effective and harmonious with PyGame Zero’s unique syntax.
Resources for Further Learning
Documentation and Tutorials
Official PyGame and PyGame Zero documentation
You want the real deal? Head to the official docs.
PyGame Documentation is a treasure trove. It breaks down everything from setting up to advanced techniques. The nitty-gritty details are there. Perfect for those who love diving deep.
And for PyGame Zero? Straight to their official docs. It’s compact, direct. Guides you from zero to hero in no time.
Online tutorials and video resources
Prefer visuals? YouTube and online platforms are your go-to. Loads of creators make tutorials that walk through how to install pygame in PyCharm and beyond.
Sites like Codecademy, Coursera, and Khan Academy offer courses that include PyGame. Python game development made easy.
Sample Projects
Exploring beginner-friendly project examples
Kickstart with simple projects. Building a basic platformer or a space shooter is a great starting point.
GitHub is flooding with projects. Search for beginner PyGame projects. Clone them, tweak them, break them, fix them. It’s all part of learning.
Expanding skills through advanced project challenges
Ready for more? Dig into advanced projects. Add AI to your game. Incorporate complex physics. Take a peek at advanced PyGame projects.
And don’t forget Stack Overflow for troubleshooting. The community there is a lifesaver.
FAQ on How To Install Pygame In PyCharm
How do I start a new project in PyCharm for installing Pygame?
To start a new project, open PyCharm. Click File > New Project. Choose your project location, then click Create. After this, go to File > Settings > Project: [your project name] > Project Interpreter, and ensure the interpreter is set up correctly.
How do I set up a Python interpreter in PyCharm?
In PyCharm, go to File > Settings > Project: [your project name] > Project Interpreter. Click the gear icon and select Add. Choose Virtualenv Environment to set up a new virtual environment, which is crucial for managing your dependencies.
How can I open the terminal in PyCharm?
To open the terminal in PyCharm, simply click the Terminal tab at the bottom of the screen. This will allow you to run commands like pip install pygame
directly from within the IDE, simplifying package installation.
What command do I use to install Pygame?
In the PyCharm terminal, type pip install pygame
and hit enter. This command fetches Pygame from PyPI and installs it into your project’s virtual environment. Once installed, you can immediately start using Pygame in your code.
How can I verify if Pygame is installed correctly?
Open the terminal and enter python -m pygame.examples.aliens
. If the demo game runs, Pygame is installed correctly. Alternatively, write a simple Python script to import Pygame and print its version.
Why am I encountering installation errors?
Installation errors usually occur due to outdated pip versions or conflicting dependencies. Ensure you’re using an updated version of pip by running pip install --upgrade pip
. Verify your project’s Python version in the Project Interpreter settings as well.
How do I configure project settings for Pygame in PyCharm?
In PyCharm, go to File > Settings > Project: [your project name] > Project Interpreter. Ensure Pygame appears in the list of installed packages. If not, use the terminal to install it. Double-check your virtual environment setup.
Can I use Pygame with PyCharm Community Edition?
Yes, you can use Pygame with both the Community and Professional editions of PyCharm. The steps for setting up and installing Pygame remain the same across both versions. Ensure your Python interpreter is correctly configured.
What are some common PyCharm plugins for game development?
PyCharm supports various plugins like Sourcery for code quality and Test Runner for testing. These tools can improve productivity but are optional for setting up Pygame. Focus on ensuring your Pygame and project settings are correct first.
How can I keep my PyCharm and Pygame up to date?
Regularly update PyCharm through its built-in update manager: Help > Check for Updates. For Pygame, run pip install --upgrade pygame
in the terminal. Keeping your tools updated ensures compatibility and access to the latest features.
Conclusion
Wrapping up on how to install pygame in PyCharm:
By now, you’ve got a clear understanding of installing Pygame within PyCharm. Start by creating a new project in PyCharm and ensuring your Python interpreter is correctly set up. Open the terminal and run pip install pygame
. Verify the installation by executing a Pygame demo or writing a simple script.
Managing dependencies through a virtual environment ensures a smooth setup process. Keep PyCharm and Pygame updated to avoid compatibility issues. With your IDE configured, you can dive into game development using Python and Pygame.
In summary, the steps you’ve followed will enable you to efficiently set up your development environment, ensuring everything is configured correctly for your projects. Equipped with this knowledge, you’re all set to start developing interactive applications and games with Pygame in PyCharm.
Your journey into Python game development is now off to a solid start!
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