Best Programming Languages for Game Developers

With the global video game market valued at $282.3 billion, there’s never been a better time to be a game developer. But before sending out applications, you need to know your way around some programming languages.

With so many out there, choosing the right language to specialize in can be overwhelming. Your chosen language must be fast, user-friendly, and compatible with your game engine and target platforms. 

We’ve shortlisted the most essential programming languages every game developer must master, as well as some to steer clear of.

Key Programming Language Statistics

The following statistics apply to programming languages in general, not just game development:

• Most used languages in 2024: JavaScript leads globally with 62.3%, followed by HTML/CSS at 52.9%, Python at 51%, and SQL at 51%.
• Also popular in development: While not as popular across development sectors, Java (30.3%), C# (27.1%), and C++ (23%) remain widely used.
• Most searched for tutorials: Python leads with 29.71% of Google searches for language tutorials, followed by Java at 15.43%, and JavaScript at 7.99%.
• TIOBE Index ratings: Python leads the TIOBE Index with 22.85% in ratings, C++ ranks second at 10.64%, and Java follows at 9.6%.
• Fastest-growing languages: HCL shows the highest growth at 56.1%, followed by Rust (50.5%), TypeScript (37.8%), and Lua (34.2%).

These findings show that typical game development languages like C++ and C# are performing well in the wider programming world. Additionally, languages Rust and Lua are experiencing rapid growth, highlighting their rising relevance in game development and beyond.

What are programming languages for game development? 

Programming languages are essential tools developers use to create code that powers video games. They enable developers to build virtually all aspects of a game’s infrastructure. These range from mechanics and physics to graphics and AI. With the right programming language, developers can optimize game performance, gameplay, and user experience.

What to consider when choosing programming languages?

So which ones tick all of the boxes above? We have shortlisted the most suitable programming languages for game developers to master.

The Best Programming Languages for Game Developers

While there are many programming languages fit for game development, we believe C++ and C# are a cut above the rest. Our research shows that 36% of game developer job openings demand proficiency in at least one of these two languages. 

Let’s explore why C++ and C# are so essential for game developers.

C++: Best for AAA games

Often regarded as the golden standard for game development, C++ stands out for its speed and versatility.

This language has been used to build popular game engines like Unreal Engine and CryEngine. So it’s a must-learn for game developers looking to create high-performance games with complex mechanics and graphics. It’s also ideal for AAA studios that develop proprietary game engines.

C++ is adaptable across multiple platforms and utilizes low-level memory for optimal speed.

C#: Best for Beginners

The language behind one of the most popular game engines (Unity), C# is essential for those looking to break out into the indie and mobile game world. Unity’s scripting system depends on C#. Therefore, whether you want to develop 2D or 3D games, you need to lock this programming language down.

C# stands out because it’s effective in helping to create games across platforms, including mobile, console, and VR. It’s ideal for beginners because of its ease of use and there are plenty of online resources and communities out there to help you get up to speed.

Programming Languages for Game Developers: Runners-Up

Yes, C++ and C# dominate the game development world. However, other programming languages offer unique advantages that make them strong contenders for certain use cases.

Lua: Best for lightweight scripting

Often embedded into game engines, Lua is unique due to its lightweight scripting capabilities. Lua ensures maximum performance while also making game development customizable and flexible. Game engines like Roblox and Corona SDK commonly use Lua. 

Rust: Best for memory safety

A programming language gaining momentum in the game development world is definitely Rust. With high-level performance and memory safety features, this language is a neat alternative to C++. Developers looking to minimize crashes and bugs (like buffer overflow and null pointer dereference) should consider Rust.

Best programming language + game engine combos

It’s essential to consider which game engines are compatible with your programming language of choice. Let’s explore the game engines supported by each recommended language.

Programming language	Game engines	Key features	Popular games
C++	Unreal Engine, Godot, CryEngine, Buildbox, Source 2, Defold	– High-performance – Low-level memory control – Works across multiple platforms – Compatible with multiple engines	Minecraft, World of Warcraft, League of Legends, Gears of War, PUBG, Mass Effect, Far Cry, Hunt: Showdown, Prey, Artifact, Dota Underlords, Half-Life: Alyx, Monument Valley 2
C#	Unity, Godot, CryEngine	– Versatile for 2D/3D – Good for beginners – Lots of learning resources online	Pokemon Go, Cuphead, Hollow Knight, Ori and the Blind Forest, Subnautica, Among Us, Temple Run
Lua	Defold, Solar2D, Roblox Studio, CryEngine	– Lightweight/fast – Easy to integrate into engines – Embedded scripting	Angry Birds, Don’t Starve, Hades, Roblox, Homeworld 2, Broken Age
Rust	Bevy	– As fast as C++ – Eliminates common bugs	Veloren, Zemeroth, Epicinium, Nox Futura

Here are some programming languages gaining some traction in the game dev community:

• ANSI C: Despite being one of the oldest programming languages, ANSI C is becoming popular among game developers. Known for its portability and speed, this language is suitable for hardware-specific optimizations and embedded systems. 
• Zig: Another rising game dev star, Zig offers a mix of C-like performance with safer memory management. Zig has modern tooling, garbage collection, and a growing ecosystem. 

You might be wondering, “Why didn’t you mention Python? What about Java? Surely JavaScript should be on this list, no?” Don’t worry, we didn’t forget about them.

Programming languages not ideal for game development

There’s a common misconception that all programming languages can be used for game development. And it’s just not that simple. Programming languages unfit for game development include:

Java

Historically significant, having been used to create Minecraft. But Java is no longer recommended in modern game development. Even Minecraft shifted to a C++ version for performance reasons.

There is a joke in the game developer community: Programming a game in Java is like being a pirate – you start on an island (Java), but eventually, you end up in the open sea (C++).

JavaScript, HTML5, and Web Assembly (WASM)

Often used for web-based and mobile games, these languages are excellent for simpler projects. However, they lack high-performance capabilities needed for creating AAA games.

A growing number of game developers are turning to WebAssembly (WASM) to create web games. WASM allows languages like C, C++, and Rust to be compiled for use in web browsers. This offers near-native performance and enables more complex, high-quality games to run efficiently on the web. This makes WASM a compelling choice for modern web game development.

Node.js

Along with C++ and C#, Node.js is a popular choice for game server development, especially for real-time multiplayer games. This language is great at handling multiple connections efficiently due to its event-driven, non-blocking I/O model. Applications that need low latency (like multiplayer games and live in-game chat systems) thrive with this language.

Completely Unsuitable Languages for Game Development

We believe that the following programming languages are not suitable for aspiring game developers whatsoever:

• Python: Although simple and general-purpose, Python is generally used for prototyping. Not for large-scale game development.
• Swift: This is Apple’s proprietary programming language for iOS and macOS development. Therefore, it isn’t relevant for non-Apple game development.

In our opinion, these programming languages either A) no longer serve their purpose in the current game dev landscape, or B) were never relevant to begin with. 

Which programming language? The choice is yours

Have you figured out yet which programming language is best to develop your game? A lot of it depends on what type of game you want to create. C++ and C# might be more suitable if you want to create a 3D first-person shooter.

While Lua could be a good choice for creating 2D platformers, ease of development depends on the game engine and the developer’s expertise. For example, a platformer can be created more efficiently in C# using Unity than in Defold with Lua if you are already proficient in using the tools and language.

To further narrow down your choices, refer to the following list:

• 3D, PC, console, android, iOS, and AR/VR games: C++ and C#
• Simple/2D games: C# and Lua
• AAA games: C++
• Web games: Lua.

It’s also essential to consider practical factors, like the job market. Using C++ and C# can make it easier for job searchers and employers to land a relevant job and find experienced candidates, respectively.

If you want to (and have time to) understand every detail, starting from scratch with C++ or C# can be a great way to deeply learn about the development process and game mechanics. In this case, these languages are the most flexible, effective options. They let you build every aspect of the game independently.

These recommendations are based on the strengths and key features of each language. But the final choice should be based on what best fits your project’s specific needs.