krkr

krkr is the shorthand name for the Kirikiri engine, a cross-platform toolset used primarily to create visual novels and other 2D interactive applications. It provides a runtime and scripting pipeline that allows authors to define scenes, characters, dialogue, and user interfaces while managing assets such as backgrounds, sprites, audio, and video.

Originating in the Japanese visual novel community, krkr has been adopted by hobbyists and indie developers to publish a wide range of titles and fan projects. It is designed to be flexible and script-driven, enabling creators to choreograph complex interactions and transitions without heavy programming.

The engine comprises a core runtime, a rendering and asset-management layer, and a scripting system. The primary scripting approach is associated with the KiriKiri Adventure Game language (KAG), and the overall architecture supports layered graphics, text rendering, and multimedia playback. krkr emphasizes modularity and extensibility, allowing developers to add functionality via plugins or forks.

Over time, krkr has spawned multiple forks and ports. The main lineage includes variants such as Kirikiri2 (often referred to as KRKR2) and various community ports, including KRKRZ, a Linux-focused port that broadens platform availability. Licensing terms vary by fork and release, with many components released under permissive licenses in community editions.

Today, krkr remains part of the broader visual novel ecosystem, valued for its script-driven workflow and asset-flexible design. It continues to be used in fan-created and some indie titles, and it has inspired related engines and tooling within the VN community. Related topics include NScripter, the broader visual novel development landscape, and other Kirikiri-based projects.