There are plenty of programming language which are used in the creation of online games of all types. However, why are these languages used in the first place, and why are different languages used to make different games? These are the questions that this article aims to answer.
What is a Programming Language?
Before getting into the specifics of which languages are used for which games, you might first want a brief introduction to what a programming language even is. After all, not everyone needs to know the nitty-gritty of how a computer works.
To put it briefly, a programming language is exactly what the name implies. It is the language that is used to “communicate” with computers. After all, most computers essentially operate as a system of highly advanced switches collected together to produce a huge range of potential effects.
So, to more efficiently engage with those switches, programming languages were developed in order to allow complex instructions to be given to computers quickly – much like you are able to ask your neighbor for a cup of sugar without having to get into the nitty gritty of defining sugar, cups, and even the concept of a question.
Programming languages are the language of computers, and they are used to give specific instructions. There are – much like human languages – many different programming languages, and some are better at certain processes (or just more widely used for those purposes) making them more appropriate for creating certain games.
Popular Programming Languages in Games
So, now that you understand what programming languages are – and why there are many different examples of these languages – you’re probably ready to learn how and why each is used to make games. So, let’s dive in with a few examples below:
- C++ — Powerful, efficient, and versatile; C++ is probably one of the best languages around for game development. After all, it can support expansive and beautiful graphics while also allowing for complex and comprehensive debugging. C++ is the chosen language of Unreal Engine and Godot, and for good reason.
- JavaScript — While JavaScript isn’t universally used for game development – like some other languages – it is an extremely versatile language that can be fairly easily learned, making it far more approachable than C++ for new devs. What’s more, its lightweight nature makes it ideal for more simplistic online games, such as online blackjack and other online casino games, since they don’t require a huge amount of mechanical or graphical work.
- Python — Another spectacularly easy to learn language, python is one of the most versatile programming languages ever made, making it a perfect option for game development.
This is not an all-encompassing list of languages used in game development. However, these are some of the most commonly used options, and represent some of the most important aspects of ideal game development languages.
Does it Matter?
To some, it might seem like a pointless exercise to understand which programming languages are used to make games. In particular, if you have no interest in making games yourself.
However, if you find it interesting and entertaining to understand more about a medium that you truly enjoy, then there is no harm in looking to understand what goes into making games, even if you don’t ever intend to make them yourself.
