title: Is it better to hardcode in, or leave it to external XML files
body: <p>I'm creating a 2D based RPG game.  Similar to that of Pokemon for the Gameboy.  Basically, my games maps are created up by x by x size terrain.  There are also scenery objects (trees, shrubs, etc.) as well as intractable things (i.e. signs, doors, items, etc.).  Currently, I've been hard coding these objects in.  The problem is, every time I add a scenery object, terrain tile, or anything else, it requires me to go through and add a class for it, specify some different data, etc.  Basically, I feel like I have to do a lot of repetitive tasks to do something so simple.</p>
  
  <p>I'm scared that later, my project will become unmanageable.  Each piece of new terrain, scenery, or other object inherited from a class called 'GridElement'.</p>
  
  <p>So, would it be better to have all the tile, scenery, etc. information put into an external XML file and loaded at run time, or continue hard coding these elements in? </p>
  
  <p>The main problem is, most of these elements require specific functions to be applied to them.  Some of them need to call events when they are stepped on.  Some elements are also dynamic (the tile changes every couple seconds, e.g. water, flower, etc.).</p>
  
  <p>Thanks for the help!</p>
  
  <p>Cheers!</p>