5 Preferred programming languages for game development

When it comes to games, game publishers have a variety of tech options to pick from.

The gaming market has blossomed over the last few years, thus bringing about new technologies and frameworks. Today, even the complex and intricate art of game creation can become less challenging with the right coding language at hand.

So, what is the best language for game development? This question can’t be answered without going over the basics first.

What are popular technologies for games?

Coding languages are a fundamental part of game creation. In a way, they are similar to spoken languages – engineers have to speak many of them, since each one is best suited for specific tasks. Below, we have curated the ace of aces among coding technologies, including classic and lesser-known ones.

C#

C# is often heralded as the top technology for creating stellar gaming experiences. This technology is popular in game creation since it clicks well with engines and programs for creating graphics and sound design. C# is widely used for PC game products and allows teams to develop all the necessary elements, such as architecture and logic, required to create a full-fledged game.

There are many other features that make C# an excellent language for producing gaming experiences, including:

• All of Unity’s libraries are built using C# code;
• XNA set of tools to ease the strain on game engineers;
• Cross-platform functionality to forge products across the platforms;
• C# was used to develop such big names as Super Mario Run and Pokemon Go.

Java

This coding language isn’t the go-to option for building PC or console products. However, Java is still touted as the best coding language for games based on Android.

This coding language is a multifunctional object-oriented technology that was essentially built to run on the Java Virtual Machine. The main differentiator of Java JVM is code compatibility which implies that developers won’t have to rewrite Java code. Once the application is built it can be run on any device that has JVM. This compatibility secured Java’s place on the top.

Moreover, thanks to its active community and a wide array of open-source material, Java has a low learning curve and allows indie game developers to craft their masterpieces with the least effort. Web-based games also use Java, in conjunction with Flash. A prominent example of Java-fueled games includes Minecraft and FIFA 11.

C++

This technology is also referenced as the best programming language for games. C++ is one of the most extensively used programming languages, and it is one of the most well-established technologies. Its application area spans operating systems, a variety of application programs, device drivers, embedded system applications, and, of course, high-quality game experiences.

Thanks to its low-level programming abilities, C++ boasts unrivaled flexibility that isn’t available with C# or Python. This coding language allows game developers to speak directly to hardware. This, in turn, translates into optimized performance, which is core within the gameplay realm.

This universal game coding technology also topples others in cross-platform portability and fast execution. Moreover, C++ is compatible with a variety of 2D and 3D game engines, including Godot and Unreal Engine. Some stellar examples include the Counter-Strike shooter series, The Witcher, and other AAA games.

Python

Python is virtually the swiss army knife when it comes to the technical world. Game creation, in particular, also benefits from this high-level coding technology. Python is a staple for any beginner game engineer since it has no-brainer syntax, reusable code, and breezy debugging.

Besides newbies, large game studios also leverage Python for game prototyping or specific game components like inner logic or AI. This coding language is also a favored option thanks to a variety of functionalities and add-ons. These include libraries and frameworks that specifically aid in game development. PyGame and Panda3D are just a sliver of useful supplements.

Python is listed among stack technologies for Battlefield 2, The Sims 4, and World of Tanks.

JavaScript

Last but not least is JavaScript. Since HTML and CSS have more compatibility with it than any other technology, JavaScript is often employed to create interactive web-based and mobile games. As a result, this technology is uniquely positioned to create 2D and 3D browser games.

JavaScript’s success is also due to its simple syntax, adaptability, and compatibility. Despite its simplicity, JavaScript allows game developers to create sophisticated user interfaces and fully functional programs.

2048 is one of the most notable applications built with JavaScript.

The Bottom Line

The global gaming industry is growing exponentially, bringing forward a myriad of new technologies. However, fundamental programming languages remain the lifeblood for top-ranking games. Thus, C++, C#, Python, JavaScript, and Java remain among the best coding languages for games with the largest user base and a rich ecosystem.