Making video games is a dream come true for kids who love games. You can work on your own game or work with a small group of people to turn your ideas into reality. Learning those skills can set you up for a career making Triple A games with a major studio and developing some of the coolest titles that will become household names.
The path to becoming a gaming programmer usually involves earning a Bachelor’s Degree, developing a portfolio of small, independently-made games, and breaking into the industry with an entry-level position. But most importantly, it all starts when you learn how to code.
There are hundreds of programming languages in existence, by some estimates, even 9,000. The reason there are so many languages is that they all do different things. Many were created to accomplish very niche tasks. But there are a few standout languages widely used in the video game industry today. If you’re looking into a career as a video game developer, or you’re a parent who wants to get your kids signed up for coding courses, these are the languages you want to know.
#1 Python
Python is one of the most-used programming languages by developers and software engineers. It’s versatile, and it’s one of the first languages young coders get experience with when they take coding classes.
For kids learning the basics of coding, you want to make sure they’re learning real programming languages widely used in the industry like Python. Python is a better alternative to learning with drag-and-drop nodes, as students start to really learn how coding actually works. You can learn more at Realprogramming.com about the benefits of starting with real languages.
#2 Java
Java is another coding language that young coders can start to learn early on. Java is one of the most widely applicable programming languages, used in everything electronic from microwaves to advanced video games. When it comes to games, Java is behind classics like Runescape, Star Wars Galaxies, and Tom Clancy’s Politika. It’s a powerhouse of the video game industry and applicable in a wide range of careers.
#3 JavaScript
JavaScript is one of the top languages for web development and browser games. It’s often taught alongside Python and Java. It’s the language that makes things happen on a web page.
#4 C++
C++ is the language used in some of the top Triple A video game titles in the world. Behind games like World of Warcraft and Counter-Strike, it’s one of the more advanced coding languages, but even coding classes for high school students get into C++ and other advanced coding languages.
#5 C#
C# is used alongside the Unity engine, one of the most popular game engines available. C# is pretty much the best bet for developers who want to work with 3D Unity games and will likely remain a top contender for years to come.
Video game development is a great career for people who love gaming and working on awesome projects. It’s never too early (or too late) to learn the top programming languages in the business.
