Would people like a Flash to C# Converter?

Question

I am wondering if there is much demand for a Flash to C# Converter. It would convert all the assets and code from a swf, and output .png/.mp3/.avi and .cs files, so you can then compile them.

You would input the swf, choose a few options, then it will do it's thing. I would probably make it that you could target it for Desktop/DX, Desktop/OpenGL(for Mac and Linux), Mobile/Win7, Mobile/MonoTouch.

I have managed to read through the swf file format, and have gotten useful information from it.

So, my point is this: it is going to take a while to write, and will be a big task. Should I go ahead with this project, or find something more useful.

Answer 1

Go for it. Especially if you open source it, the programming and end-user world could possibly only be a better place because of it.

Caveat: read the copyright stuff carefully . Even Java, which many used to believe was more or less open, showed that it was not infinitely so when Google created some of their own Java runtime for Android.

Answer 2

Why convert it to C# at all? Just convert the swf to an IL assembly and be done with it. Emitting IL is slightly more complicated than emitting C# text, but not as difficult as you might think, especially if you're coming from another VM where most of your work will be mapping the Flash VM opcodes and types onto IL opcodes and types.

Answer 3

I've written a SWF generator, and I personally think you're in over your head. With all due respect, enormous kudos if you can do this, but the flash file format is very versatile. How ie would you handle morphing (tweening)? I agree with the other people here that says that a silverlight converter is probably a better product, and again I'll be very impressed if you can pull this one off.