Preface

In September 2003, Macromedia released Flash MX 2004, and, with it, ActionScript 2.0 ”a drastically enhanced version of Flash's programming language.

ActionScript 2.0 introduces a formal object-oriented programming (OOP) syntax and methodology for creating Flash applications. Compared to traditional timeline-based development techniques, ActionScript 2.0's OOP-based development techniques typically make applications:

• More natural to plan and conceptualize

• More stable and bug-free

• More reusable across projects

• Easier to maintain, change, and expand on

• Easier to test

• Easier to codevelop with two or more programmers

Those are some extraordinary qualities. So extraordinary, in fact, that they've turned this book into something of a zealot. This book wants you to embrace ActionScript 2.0 with a passion.