How to Get Random Values from a Function in Python Using Tkinter

Learn how to store and retrieve random numbers generated from a button in a Python Tkinter application, enhancing your game experience.
---

Visit these links for original content and any more details, such as alternate solutions, latest updates/developments on topic, comments, revision history etc. For example, the original title of the Question was: Python: Getting variable from a function that generates random numbers by pressing a button

If anything seems off to you, please feel free to write me at vlogize [AT] gmail [DOT] com.
---
Rolling Dice in Python: Keeping Track of Random Values

When creating a game, especially one that simulates rolling dice, having control over the random numbers generated can be essential. If you're trying to retrieve the value of a randomly generated number every time you roll the dice, you're not alone! Many developers face similar challenges when working with Python's Tkinter library. In this guide, we will address a common issue: how to access the value of a variable generated inside a function when that function is triggered by a button press.

The Challenge

Let's consider a simple scenario where we want to roll a dice and display the outcome on the screen. The function that rolls the dice generates a random number between 1 and 6, but we need to be able to access this number later for additional functionality (like displaying the last rolled number). In the initial code provided, the generated number dice could only be displayed but not reused, leading to frustration when trying to create a more interactive game.

Initial Code Example

Here's the starting code taken from our scenario:

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

As you can see, the code rolls a dice whenever the button is pressed, but the value of dice is limited to the function scope, making it inaccessible for later use.

The Solution

To solve this issue, we can utilize a global variable. This way, the value of dice is accessible outside the roll function, allowing us to implement additional features in our game effectively. Here’s how you can modify the existing code to achieve this:

Step-by-step Breakdown of the Solution

Declare a Global Variable: This will hold the last rolled value.

Create an Additional Function: This function will allow us to access the last rolled value whenever needed.

Update the User Interface: Add another button to display the last rolled number.

Updated Code

Here's the complete modified code reflecting these changes:

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

Important Note

Remember that if the "Get last roll" button is pressed before the "Roll the Dice!" button, an error will occur because dice is not yet defined. To prevent this, you can initialize dice with a default value at the beginning of the script, which could help avoid potential NameError exceptions.

Conclusion

By utilizing a global variable, you can easily track the value rolled by the dice and enhance the interactivity of your game. This technique allows you to add more features, such as displaying the last number rolled or implementing game logic based on the dice result. Feel free to experiment and expand your game's functionality with this straightforward approach.

Now, the next time you implement random number generation in a Python Tkinter application, you'll know how to make the values accessible for future use! Happy coding!