ActionScript 3 is an object oriented language used in Flash and Adobe Air programs. ActionSript is a dialect of the ECMAScript meaning it has the same syntax and semantics as the hugely popular browser scripting language, JavaScript. The fact that ActionScript 3 shares the same syntax, means it is a language which is very accessible to Web Designers already comfortable with JavaScript, who want to move across to programming either for web based flash applications or Adobe Air Desktop applications.
ActionScript originally held its origins as a basic time line control scripting language, used mainly for controlling 2d animation but having little interactivity features. Later versions were built upon – adding more power to the language. ActionScript 3 is now capable of creating extremely high-level interactive games and web based applications, desktop applications, and even incorporating some database functionality added to Adobe Air; ActionScript has even found its way into basic robotic programming.
This series will be focused on using ActionScript for web design and creating basic web applications. After looking at the basics of the language we will move onto creating applications such as multi programme TV streaming applications, interactive charting programmes and even multi touch programming for the latest operating systems including the ipad and iphone (yes, iphone and ipad applications can be programmed using ActionScript).
The next installment will cover getting started with ActionScript.
