FAQ
Answers to common questions about Nongine.
General
What is Nongine?
Nongine is a free, browser-based visual novel editor. It features a node-based story graph, rich dialog editor, freeform design canvas, character animation system, and one-click publishing. No coding required.
Is Nongine free?
Yes! The free plan includes unlimited local projects, all 21 node types, the full design editor, character animations, path analysis, and HTML export. Upgrade to Pro for cloud sync and unlimited publishing.
Do I need to install anything?
No. Nongine runs in your browser. We also offer a desktop app (macOS & Windows) for offline work and local file saves.
What browsers are supported?
Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and Edge — any modern browser with ES2020 support. We recommend Chrome or Firefox for the best experience.
Creating & Editing
How does the node editor work?
Each story element (scene, choice, condition, etc.) is a node on a canvas. Connect nodes with edges to define story flow. 21 node types cover dialog, logic, audio, cutscenes, and more.
Can I use custom JavaScript?
Yes. The Logic Editor supports both visual rules (if/then) and full JavaScript with access to all story variables. You can also use Script nodes for custom code at any point in the flow.
How do character animations work?
10 preset animations (idle, talk, laugh, sad, angry, surprise, nod, headshake, bounce, blush) are built in. You can also create custom keyframe animations with the visual animation editor.
Can I customize the visual novel UI?
Yes. Design mode lets you drag every UI element — textbox, name badge, portraits, choices, click indicator — to any position. Add PNG frame decorations, set per-scene styles, and per-character themes.
Publishing & Export
How do I publish my novel?
Click "Publish" in the toolbar. Your novel gets a public URL that anyone can play in their browser. Free users can publish 1 novel; Pro users get unlimited publishing.
Can I export to HTML?
Yes. Export your novel as a single standalone HTML file that works offline. The file includes all assets, styles, and the runtime engine.
What script export formats are available?
Markdown, plain text, Fountain (for screenwriting tools), JSON (structured data), and CSV (for spreadsheets). You can filter by character and configure export options.
Can I export for Steam?
Desktop app packaging for Steam is on our roadmap. Currently you can export as standalone HTML or publish to the web.
Can I import from Ren'Py or Twine?
Ren'Py import (.rpy parsing) is planned. Twine import (Harlowe/SugarCube) is also on the roadmap.
Account & Billing
What happens if I cancel Pro?
Your projects stay on your device. Cloud sync pauses, and published novels remain live for 30 days. You can re-subscribe anytime to restore cloud access.
Is there a student discount?
Yes! Students and educators get 50% off Pro. Contact us with your .edu email address.
Can I use Nongine commercially?
Yes. You own full rights to everything you create with Nongine. Sell your visual novels on Steam, itch.io, or anywhere else.
Still have questions?
Can't find what you're looking for? Reach out and we'll get back to you.
Contact Support