What Programming Language Is Used For Video Games
As a programmer if your wondering what programming language is used for video games, there are several programming languages you can use for coding your video game such as;
- C++
- C#
- JavaScript
- Java
- Lua
- Python
- Swift
- GameMaker Language (GML)
- Css3 and HTML 5
- SQL
C++
C++ is the foundation of most major console and Microsoft Windows games. C++ is a powerful object-oriented language widely used in game development. While it can be difficult to learn, it earns its position through ubiquity. It’s supported by most game development kits and frameworks. C++ is one of the most common programming languages with a relatively high entry barrier, but the reward is greater because it allows more direct control over the hardware and graphical processes.
C#
C# is a high-level language, designed for humans to understand. Its syntax encourages code reusability, which makes it efficient, and its compilers reduce runtime errors by warning the programmer in advance. It also has a higher barrier to entry than many simpler game development languages.
JavaScript
JavaScript, one of the first web development languages, is used to create interactive web elements that engage users. JavaScript is used to create games as well as robust web applications. It is easy to learn and use, making it popular for beginner programmers. However, it can be held back a bit because it is mostly a web-first language.
Java
Java is a versatile language commonly used by small game development companies. It’s powered some of the world’s top iOS and Android games including Minecraft and Mission Impossible III. Java is a cross-platform language, so it runs on nearly any system including Microsoft and Linux. Java is a reliable and portable cross-platform language used to create games that can be played across a multitude of platforms. It is relatively easy to learn and supports a large community of developers.
LUA
Lua is not among top programming languages but it’s still the programming language behind popular games like Angry Birds and Age of Conan, and it powers engines like CryEngine, Gideros Mobile, and Corona SDK. Lua is a lightweight, easy language popular in game development. It is frequently used as a scripting language for games.
Python
Python is a widely used, easy-to-learn language that offers high readability. It is frequently used in game development and is also popular for artificial intelligence and machine learning applications. Python is a beginner-friendly language, Python was created to be readable by human beings. Its syntax is possibly the most English-like among programming languages, which is why it’s a common teaching language in software development.
Swift
Swift is a new language created by Apple. It is frequently used for iOS game development, but it can be used to create many types of mobile applications. Swift is a powerful and intuitive programming language for iOS, iPadOS, macOS, tvOS, and watchOS.
GameMaker Language (GML)
GameMaker Language is GameMaker’s scripting language. It is an imperative, dynamically typed language commonly likened to JavaScript and C-like languages. The language’s default mode of operation on native platforms is via a stack machine; it can also be source-to-source compiled to C++ via LLVM for higher performance.
CSS3 And HTML 5
HTML5 and CSS3 are known as the web development languages used to give a page structure and visual display elements, respectively. However, while you can develop a game solely with HTML5, you cannot do so with just CSS3.
SQL
Structured Query Language, abbreviated as SQL, is a domain-specific language used in programming and designed for managing data held in a relational database management system, or for stream processing in a relational data stream management system.
SQL is used for back-end database work so that the player can access their account and do other things on the server, like in MMORPGs. SQL is not very important if you’re developing a single-player game.
Related Articles: How Programming Languages Are Made
What Is The Best Programming Language For Video Games
In my opinion the best programming language that can be used in a video game is C++ mostly because;
- It’s a very fast language. Gamers expect high performance and minimal to no delay in a quality game. Unfortunately, video games are prone to high server load, which can lead to latency if the code converts too slowly. C++ converts quickly, even when multiple tasks run at the same time.
- It works in close proximity to hardware. Video games rely on hardware for control functions. C++ operates closely to that hardware, so engines perform better with less chance of stalling.
- It works cross-platform. C++ lets you release projects on multiple operating systems and gaming platforms.
- It features high-performance tools. C++ has a rich set of open-source libraries that take some of the legwork out of coding. There are C++ libraries for many different aspects of game development, from graphics design to debugging.
- It’s compatible with other game programming languages. C++ gives you the flexibility to incorporate languages like C# or JavaScript to improve particular aspects of a game, like graphics or audio.
Attributes Of A Good Programming Language for A Game
- Fast and lightweight
- Robust
- Well-integrated
- Well-supported
What is Game Programming?
Game programming, a subset of game development, is the software development of video games. Game programming requires substantial skill in software engineering and computer programming in a given language.
Video game programming is the development of software that will become a video game. This means using coding languages to write each line of code that will eventually create the environment, characters, and actions the user will see on the front end.
