Prerequisites
Node.js
Version 16.0.0 or higher
npm
Version 7.0.0 or higher
Installation Methods
Global Installation (Recommended)
Install Lua CLI globally to use it from anywhere:Using Package Runners (No Installation)
Run Lua CLI without installing:Package runners are great for trying out Lua CLI, but global installation is recommended for regular use.
Authentication
After installation, set up your credentials:Authentication Methods
- Email (Recommended)
- API Key
Email Authentication with OTP
- Choose βEmailβ when prompted
- Enter your email address
- Check your email for a 6-digit code
- Enter the OTP code
- API key automatically generated and saved
Where Credentials are Stored
Credentials are stored securely in your system keychain:- macOS: Keychain
- Windows: Credential Vault
- Linux: libsecret
Verify Installation
Check that everything is working:Development Tools
While not required, these tools enhance the development experience:VS Code
Recommended editor with TypeScript support
Git
Version control for your skills
TypeScript Setup
The template project includes TypeScript configuration. No additional setup needed! When you runlua init, you get:
tsconfig.json- TypeScript configurationpackage.json- Dependencies- Full type definitions for all Lua APIs
Troubleshooting
Command not found: lua
Command not found: lua
Problem: The CLI isnβt in your PATHSolutions:
- Reinstall globally:
npm install -g lua-cli - Use npx instead:
npx lua-cli [command] - Check npm global path:
npm config get prefix
Permission denied
Permission denied
Problem: Need sudo for global installationSolution on Unix:Better solution: Configure npm to install globally without sudo:
API key not found
API key not found
Problem: Authentication not configuredSolution:
Node.js version too old
Node.js version too old
Problem: Node.js version is below 16.0.0Solution: Update Node.js
- Visit https://nodejs.org
- Download and install LTS version
- Or use nvm:
nvm install --lts
Next Steps
1
Create Your First Project
2
Explore the Template
Learn about the example tools and skills included
Template Guide
3
Start Building
Begin customizing tools for your use case

