If you’re looking for a new career or hobby, game development is a great option. Not only can you combine your creative and technical skills, but you’ll also get the satisfaction of seeing people enjoying something you’ve put your heart into (and it can be pretty lucrative, too).
But before you can start making a game, you need to learn how to write code. And depending on the type of game you want to make, there are different programming languages you should learn. Here we’ll explain which languages are best for game development and the benefits of each.
You can also check out our free Introduction to Game Development course, which will take you step-by-step through the development process, including programming languages, engines, and other technologies used in the industry.
Learn something new for free
1. C++
It’s no surprise that C++ is one of the top game development languages, especially since it’s a popular and flexible solution. C++ is known for its high level of abstraction, allowing you precise control over how your computer’s hardware interacts with your code.
C++ plays a very important role in game design because it gives you much more control over how the system handles graphics.
Another important benefit of using C++ is that it allows you to optimize special parts of your game design and create your own abstractions. This is similar to giving certain elements of your game their own infrastructure and resources. This level of detailed game development is difficult, if not impossible, in many other languages.
C++ is used to create popular games like StarCraft, Football Pro, Counterstrike, etc. To start creating your own C++ games, check out courses like “Learn C++” and “C++ for Programmers.”
2. Java
Although Java doesn’t offer the same level of intricacy and control as C++, many consider it to be the language of choice for game development. Java’s popularity is in part due to its ease of use, making it a good solution for many new game developers.
The Java community also provides a wealth of tools and other open source resources that can greatly speed up game development, especially since you can find code that has already been written for use in your game. In some ways, Java can make the game development process feel more plug-and-play than C++ can.
To dive into the world of Java development, check out our Learn Java course and Build a basic Android app with Java skill path, which will help you bring the games in your head to the screen.
3. JavaScript
When it comes to developing online games, few languages are easier than JavaScript. JavaScript works in conjunction with both HTML and CSS, making it easy to develop games for multiple platforms.
Some programmers find JavaScript a useful all-purpose solution because it lets you create animations and interactive elements, and the JavaScript online community is huge, so you can find lots of pre-designed elements that you can use in your own games.
JavaScript is the language that powers hit games like American Girl, Angry Birds, and Aquaria. To get started with the language, try our Learn JavaScript course, which provides the foundational knowledge you need to become comfortable with both front-end and back-end game development.
4. HTML5
HTML5 is a popular language with game developers, especially as programmers are creating game engines specifically designed to better run HTML5 games, and it can be used interchangeably with JavaScript.
HTML5 is also known for its ability to build games that work across multiple platforms and different types of browsers, potentially making it easier to design games that appeal to a wider audience.
HTML5 is used to create hit games like World Cup Penalty 2018 and Gods Will Be Watching. You can learn the basics of HTML5 with our Learn HTML course, which teaches you the basic building blocks needed to create interactive and engaging games.
5. C#
Although C# is considered an easier alternative to C++, it is still a flexible and powerful programming language. One of the reasons that C# is such a useful language for game development is that Microsoft developed XNA for this very purpose.
XNA is a set of tools specifically created to make game development easier and faster without sacrificing the end user experience. The flexibility of C# is one of its great advantages. It allows you to build games that can run on a variety of platforms, including:
- PlayStation
- Windows
- Android
- iOS
This makes C# the language of choice for games like Super Mario Run and Pokemon Go. To start creating your own game characters, check out our Learn C# course, where you’ll learn the fundamentals of game development, as well as virtual reality, websites, and mobile applications.
6. Lua
Lua is a flexible, general-purpose programming language similar to JavaScript. Although it is not as popular as the other languages on this list, in recent years Lua has been increasingly used to create video games.
Lua code can be found in popular titles like Angry Birds, Baldur’s Gate, Civilization V, The Elder Scrolls Online, and if you’re familiar with Roblox, you may already know that users can write modifications using Lua.
Want to learn more? Check out our Learn Lua course.
7. Python
Whether you’re an experienced developer or a beginner, Python’s simplicity and extensive support community make it an attractive choice for bringing your game ideas to life. While it may not be as deeply rooted in the gaming industry as C++ or C#, Python’s popularity is steadily growing thanks to its ease of use and powerful libraries. pygame The library provides a solid foundation for developers to create compelling 2D games, but Panda 3D It offers more advanced features for 3D game development.
Start learning Python with our popular course, Learn Python 3, or check out our tutorials for a step-by-step guide to building interactive games with Pygame.
How to become a game developer
To become a game developer, you need to learn a programming language such as C++, C# or Lua, understand game design principles, and gain experience with game development tools and engines. You can learn foundational game design and development skills with our free introductory game development course. If you’re interested in a career in this field, Entry-Level Game Development Jobs You might also be eligible to take a look at our guide to breaking into the game development industry.
Our courses will give you the skills and experience you need to become a star game developer. We’ll teach you how to run, hop and blast your way to success in game development and other tech fields. We’ll also help you build a portfolio, prepare for technical interviews and more.
Start with Introduction to Game Development. Then learn how to build your own game from scratch with Creating Video Games with Phaser.js. Ready? Sign up now.
Whether you’re looking to enter a new career, develop technical skills, or just write code for fun, we’re here to help you every step of the way. How to Choose the Best Codecademy Plan for You Learn more about our structured courses, professional certifications, interview preparation resources, career services, and more.
This blog was originally published in November 2021 and has been updated to include additional courses and languages for game development.
Subscribe for news, tips and more
