Top 4 Programming Languages for Game Development in 2024

The Leading Programming Languages for Game Development in 2024

The game dev industry remains one of the most successful and profitable for businesses. Statista reports that in 2024, the global video games market will reach $282.30bn in revenue, making this niche a good investment choice.

But how do we define a relevant tech stack to software durability, high scalability, and easier maintenance? If you're worried about it, look no further since we collected the top 4 programming languages perfect for game development. Read on for more details!

Python

Best for: Rapid prototyping and educational game projects.

Pros & features:

• Easy to learn with simple syntax. Many devs prefer Python for its clear nature and fast learning curve.
• Suitable for rapid prototyping and minor projects. Actually, you can use Python for any-scaled project. However, its simplicity allows you to create MVP much faster. 
• Large and active online community. Python is the top most popular language among developers following the latest TIOBE ranking, which makes it easier for you to hire experts offering a reasonable rate and count on broad community support. 

Examples: Python was used to create World of Tanks, Battlefield 2, Civilization IV, and other well-known games.

Java

Best for: Cross-platform development, especially for mobile games (Android).

Pros & features:

• Write once, run anywhere (WORA) capability. Java is a versatile language that allows you to deliver a seamless gaming experience, helping users play through various devices. 
• Robust standard libraries for networking and GUIs. For games requiring graphical user interfaces, Java offers several libraries, such as Swing and JavaFX, to develop rich, responsive UIs.
• Popular for mobile games. Despite Swift's popularity, Java is still a leading language for Android development, supported by a strong community of pros and enthusiasts. It's also a great choice for businesses looking to build a solution based on a modern stack cost-effectively.

Examples: Java is preferred by developers who worked on Minecraft and Runescape.

C++

Best for: High-performance console and PC games.

Pros & features:

• Control over system resources and performance. C++ helps devs get direct access to system resources and hardware-level control. It allows fine-tuning of memory usage and processing power for better game performance. 
• Wide adoption in industry-standard game engines. The language is also among the most popular ones when it comes to game development. A broad and supportive community helps you solve any issues that arise at a fraction of the time.
• Supports complex game mechanics and real-time physics simulations. C++ is suitable for large-scale game dev projects as its functionality helps solve relatively tricky problems. 

Examples: C++ is a base for plenty of games such as Gears of War, Red Dead Redemption 2, and The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt.

JavaScript

Best for: Web and mobile game development.

Pros & features:

• High compatibility with web browsers and mobile platforms. JavaScript is best for game development because of its versatility and ability to deliver a stellar experience through any platform used for gaming.
• Supports various libraries and frameworks for game development, such as Phaser. The broad range of tools available allows for an increase in developer velocity and speeds up Time-to-Market for new games. 
• Ideal for interactive and social games. JavaScript allows devs to create highly responsive and dynamic user interfaces that can run directly in web browsers without additional plugins or downloads. 

Examples: JavaScript became a base for many popular games, including Angry Birds and Aquaria.

Summary

In 2024, you can choose from various tech stacks for your game development. Each technology offers unique opportunities and comes with challenges for sure. But the above 4 programming languages are still on the top when it comes to the creation of intuitive and sophisticated games. 

If you have an idea to go to market with another Minecraft killer, the first thing you should think about is a team of pros in game development. Use the Devler.io platform to choose from skilled, vetted developers capable of turning your ideas into reality in the short term.