Lexical Life

An evolving generative art project inspired by Conway's Game of Life — but with letters, words, and meaning!

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Project Structure

/lexical_life
  /src
    constants.js
    utils.js
    GridManager.js
    Renderer.js
    WordFinder.js
    DictionaryLoader.js
    GameController.js
    main.js
  index.html
  style.css
  README.md

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Getting Started

1. Clone the project

git clone [your-repo-url]
cd lexical_life

2. Run it locally

Because it uses JavaScript modules (import/export), you must use a local server to run it properly.

You can quickly spin up a local server with:

Option 1: VSCode + Live Server

• Install the Live Server extension in VSCode
• Right-click index.html → "Open with Live Server"

Option 2: Python (built-in)

# Python 3
python -m http.server

Then open http://localhost:8000 in your browser.

Option 3: Node.js + serve

npm install -g serve
serve .

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How to Play

• Random Mode: Hit Start! Letters randomly spawn and evolve based on neighbor rules.
• Manual Mode: Click a cell, type letters manually. Hit Start when ready.
• Words: Valid English words (from a curated dictionary) stabilize cells permanently.
• Clear: Reset the grid to blank.
• Export: Download a PNG snapshot of your current grid.

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Tech Stack

• Vanilla JS (modules)
• HTML5 Canvas + SVG overlay
• Clean Code principles
• Modern ES Modules (no frameworks)

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Features

• Random mutations and word stabilization
• Official Scrabble 2-letter word list support
• Colored connectors between found words
• Export artwork as an image
• Full modular structure for easy extension

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TODO (Future Improvements)

• Step-by-step evolution (instead of setInterval)
• Animate word formations
• Add themes (dark mode?)
• Mobile touch controls
• Multiplayer word building mode?

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License

MIT License. Feel free to hack, fork, and create your own Lexical Life worlds!