Best Programming Language for Games

The industry of games is growing continuously across the globe. Gamers seek new features and more interactive games every now and then. Hence there’s always a space for more and more. Although game development can be a complicated task when the right programming language is selected it becomes smooth and rewarding in the end.

If you plan to enter the development industry of gaming or want to pursue it as a full-time career option you must learn which is the best coding language for game development. However, the choice of the programming language will vary depending upon the following factors

• Type of game that needs to be developed i.e Console, Mobile, or PC game
• The extent of Interactive features

In the article below we have mentioned the different languages that you can pick as you decide the features of your game, type of the game, and your experience as a full-time programmer.

Best Programming Languages For Game Development

From the available thousands of languages for programming, we have listed the best ones below. Learn the specific features provided by each programming language and implement it for the development of your game.

1. C++

One of the most popular languages to create games and interactive gaming worlds. The game engine offers different aspects such as graphics, sound, and physics for the game bots.

To build a creative and interactive game that is completely customized you will need C++. It is required as it provides a versatile and high-performing environment. Moreover, some developers also use C++ for programming the engines that are pre-existing. Some of the examples of engines that use C++ are Source, Godot, Unreal Engine, etc.

Most of the big Console or Windows games are built using C++. The level of detailing that it offers is nearly impossible to get with other programming languages.

Use of C++ in games:

• It is a high-performing language that provides minimal delays in games. C++ allows the code conversions quickly as multiple tasks are performed simultaneously.
• Capability to work cross-platform i.e of different OS or gaming platforms.
• Can incorporate with other programming languages used for game development

Examples of Games that are made using the Programming language C++

• King Quest
• Maplestory
• Counter-Strike
• Warcraft III
• Starcraft
• Invictus

2. C#

Although the language is considered an easy alternative to C++ it still offers flexible and powerful programming. The Microsoft team developed XNA for the purpose of developing games. It is a combination of tools to make game development an easy and fast process. The flexibility of C# is an add-on.

Using C# games can be different for different platforms such as Windows, Android, iOS, and PlayStation. The language is simple and accessible allowing the reusability of code. Moreover, runtime errors are reduced as warnings are displayed to the programmers in the early stages.

Use of C# in Game Development:

• It lays out the mechanics of the game.
• Guides the PC with functions to be performed as the game progresses.
• Message or Graphic displays for specific users can be customized through the scripting.

Examples of Games that are made using the Programming language C#

• Pokemon Go
• Super Mario Run
• Showdown
• Temple Run

3. Java

The game development language Java is a common preference for small companies. The programming language has powered a few top Android and iOS games. The language is cross platform and hence can run on Windows, Linux, and other operating systems.

The versatility of Java and the collection of rich open-source materials make it easy to use. Java offers multiple system codes that are reusable and options to write, debug, learn & compile different game components.

In some cases, the development process of games in Java gives a more plug-and-play feel when compared to C++.

Use of Java in Game Development:

• Support the feature of multithreading that allows users to run more than one instruction at a time.
• It offers socket programming to enable two-way communication of servers.
• Easy game development without additional tools.

Examples of Games that are made using the Programming language Java

• Powder Game
• Runescape
• Roboforge
• Politika
• Star Wars Galaxies

4. Python

Python is a user-friendly programming language which makes it a preference of even beginners. It is easily readable since the syntax used is similar to the basic English language. Therefore, it is one of the most common languages for teaching in the field of software development.

Compared to other languages in the world of Game development Python is used less widely. But if you learn Python the game development becomes easier through the PyGame. It is a free library for Python specifically designed for creating games.

Following are the features of PyGame

• Tutorials are easy to understand and implement
• Installers are easy for both Windows and Mac Operating systems
• Mix and match of core modules is possible
• Specific codes for scripting any game

Examples of Games that are made using the Programming language Python

• Sims 4
• Battlefield 2
• World of Tanks
• Frets on Fire
• Toontown Online

5. HTML

Many gaming engines are designed by programmers to make HTML games work. One of the most powerful languages, HTML can be an alternative to JavaScript for some users.

The ability of HTML to create games for multiple platforms and across different browsers makes it a well-known and trusted alternative for game development. You can develop games that are appealing to a larger audience base.

It can be used interchangeably with JavaScript.

Examples of Games that are made using the Programming language HTML

• Roll It
• Nothing to hide
• Cookie Clicker
• Gods will be watching
• Kingdom of Loathing

6. JavaScript

One of the best languages for creating interactive games is JavaScript. It can integrate different web technologies such as HTML, CSS, etc to create cross-platform games. It is used in line with HTML to add animation and more creativity to the game.

To add to the features of JavaScript the community of javaScript is homogenous and a number of frameworks have been developed over time. These pre-designed elements make the development of the game easy and quick.

Use of JavaScript for Game Development

• Can be used to club the code with their respective markup language i.e HTML, CSS, etc.
• Allows hosting games on the web page to make it easy to share when compared with the games developed on the console.
• The in built stability makes the maintenance easy.

Examples of Games that are made using the Programming language JavaScript

• Swoop
• CrossCode
• Angry Birds
• Sketchout
• Little Alchemy

7. Lua

Despite not being on the list of top choices for a programming language for android games development Lua is an ideal fit. The language is extremely lightweight and has a very small footprint on the memory and hence does not creates any drags.

The language for game development can work on virtual machines too. Therefore, it is an efficient and fast alternative to pick. One of the excellent features of Lua is it can embed multiple applications.

Many popular game engines like Corona SDK, CryEngine, and Gideros mobile have Lua as their primary language for game programming.

Examples of Games that are made using the Programming language Lua

• Age of Conan
• Aquaria
• Age of Conan
• Angry Birds

Closing Lines: Best Programming Language for Games

That’s a wrap we have listed the best coding language for games. Go through the list and pick the programming language to make games for your desired platform. Each language for game development listed above has its own advantages and drawbacks. You need to find the one that matches your skills and requirements.

Do let us know in the comments which language you will choose to develop your game. Feel free to reach out to us for any questions and further assistance. Want us to deliver all the technology updates directly to your mailbox? Subscribe to our newsletter. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, and Twitter.