Game programming

Overview

Game programming, a subset of game development, is the software development of video games. It involves a series of complex coding procedures and algorithms that enable the functionality of a game. The game programming process involves various disciplines such as mathematics, computer science, and software engineering.

History

The history of game programming dates back to the 1950s with the development of the first video games. The earliest games were developed on university mainframe computers under the guidance of professors and students. The first commercially available game was Pong, developed by Atari in 1972. The game was programmed in a low-level assembly language, which was common for games of that era.

Game Programming Languages

There are several programming languages used in game development. The choice of language often depends on the platform the game is being developed for, the game's requirements, and the developer's proficiency.

C++

C++ is one of the most widely used languages in game programming. It offers a high level of control over system resources and memory management, which is crucial for games that require optimal performance. However, it has a steep learning curve and is prone to errors if not handled properly.

C#

C# is another popular language, primarily used with the Unity game engine. It is easier to learn and use than C++, making it a popular choice for indie developers and smaller studios. However, it may not offer the same level of control over system resources as C++.

Java

Java is used in a variety of game development scenarios, including Android game development. It is known for its "write once, run anywhere" philosophy, which means that code written in Java can run on any device that has a Java Virtual Machine (JVM).

Python

Python is not typically used for commercial game development, but it is a popular choice for beginners learning game programming. It has a simple syntax and a large standard library, making it easy to pick up.

Game Engines

A game engine is a software framework designed to facilitate the creation of video games. They provide a suite of development tools and reusable components that handle common game functions such as graphics rendering, physics simulation, and input handling.

Unity

Unity is a cross-platform game engine developed by Unity Technologies. It supports both 2D and 3D game development and uses C# as its primary programming language. Unity's asset store also provides a wide range of resources for developers, from models and textures to complete project templates.

Unreal Engine

The Unreal Engine is a powerful game engine known for its high-quality graphics and advanced features. It uses a visual scripting system called Blueprints, but developers can also use C++ for more control and performance.

Godot

Godot is a free and open-source game engine that supports both 2D and 3D game development. It uses its own scripting language, GDScript, which is similar to Python.

Game Programming Techniques

Game programming involves a variety of techniques and methodologies to create a functional and engaging game.

Game Loop

The game loop is a fundamental concept in game programming. It is a loop that continuously updates the game state and renders the game to the screen until the game is closed.

Collision Detection

Collision detection is a technique used to determine when game objects have come into contact. This is crucial for many game mechanics, such as determining when a player's character has been hit by an enemy or when they have collided with a wall.

Artificial Intelligence

Artificial intelligence (AI) in games is used to control non-player characters (NPCs). This can range from simple behaviors, such as following a set path, to complex decision-making systems that mimic human-like intelligence.