Premake is a build system generator and cross-platform build configuration tool. It functions as a scripting engine that transforms scripted workspace definitions into native project files for multiple build toolsets and compilers. Additionally, it can generate JSON-formatted compilation databases for use with language servers and static analysis tools.
The project distinguishes itself through a programmable runtime that allows for internal function hooking and the interception of build logic. This extensibility enables users to create custom toolset generators, implement modular extensions for new compilers or IDEs, and modify the project generation sequence.
The system covers a broad range of build configuration capabilities, including the management of compiler flags, linker settings, and project hierarchies. It provides tools for automating build pipelines via custom shell commands, managing dependency propagation, and handling cross-platform path normalization.
The tool integrates HTTP and HTTPS requests directly into the configuration process to automate the retrieval of remote assets and external dependencies.
