How to Code a Game (original) (raw)

If you’ve ever wanted to create a game but are just starting out, there’s no shame in admitting you might not know how to code a game.

You might know that some form of coding is required (beyond the actual video game design that is). Coding is, after all, what essentially makes the magic of games happen behind the scenes. So, becoming a game developer, whether as a professional or as a hobbyist, does require you to learn how to code.

Throughout this article, we’ll be looking at some core questions of how to learn to code for games, including what programming languages are best for games as well as what game engines are best.

So if you’re ready to learn how to make games, let’s get started!

Table of contents

What is Code and Coding?

To begin to even learn how to code a game, we need to understand the concept of code. Basically, code is a large list of instructions that we give to the computer to execute. There are a few steps along the way for this to happen. First, we have the programmer which is a person who writes code. They write the code inside of an integrated development environment (IDE), which is basically a specialized text editor.

Once the code has been written, we can’t just give it to the computer to run since it has no idea of what it’s looking at. Computers at their core calculate and store information physically with 1’s and 0’s (or on and off values).

So although a set of code may be legible for us as humans, a computer is none the wiser. In order for the computer to understand our code, we need to compile it. Compiling basically means converting the written text, to 1’s and 0’s (machine code). Once at that basic level, the computer can understand and execute the code.

Below is a sample of pseudocode – coding game logic that doesn’t necessarily refer to any specific language. This sample executes when a hypothetical player takes damage from an enemy.

subtract damage from health

if health less than or equals to 0 game over

The first thing to know (whether you’re learning this stuff for how to code a game or something else), is that code is read from the top down. A computer reads code one line at a time. First, we subtract the damage from the player’s health. Then we check to see if the player’s health is less than or equals to 0, and if so – game over.

Unity coding example

What about Programming and Video Game Scripting?

Let’s take a quick detour, as some out there might be wondering how programming for games and video game scripting relate to how to code a game. In other words, why are we learning how to codea game, but not how to program a game?

Well, to put a long story short, programming for video games is the exact same thing as coding a game. While there are some technical differences between programming, coding, and scripting, 90% of the time they don’t actually matter. Most people will use them interchangeably since programming in games works the same whether you refer to it as coding for games or programming for games (or video game scripting).

As we delve into coding a game, it’s worth noting that Zenva’s Game Development Mini-Degrees provide a comprehensive set of curriculums designed to turn beginners into industry-ready game developers. From developing RPGs in Godot to creating battle royales in Roblox, the Mini-Degrees cover an extensive range of topics relevant to game development. It’s an exceptional resource, offering hands-on projects, supplemental learning materials, and a Certificate of Completion, all beneficial for shaping a promising game development career.

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Coding Languages

In the real world, we have many different types of languages and the same goes for coding. When starting out with how to code a game, you’ll need to choose a language. Something to note, is that once you learn one coding language, others are either already understandable or easy to learn. This is because pretty much all languages share the same core concepts, just with different syntax (coding grammar). Now let’s go over some of the most popular programming languages, which can then be used to create games.

void myGame () { int number = 5;

cout << "How to Code a Game";

}

void myGame () { int number = 5;

Console.WriteLine("How to Code a Game");

}

def myGame:

number = 5

print("How to Code a Game")

function myGame () { var number = 5;

console.log("How to Code a Game");

}

You may not be able to understand the code examples, but you should be able to notice that they are all relatively similar in structure. C++ and C# look very similar and a programmer who already knows one of those languages can probably understand the other – with only a bit of learning required to begin coding with it.

Toads and Fireflies style of game example

Game Engines

When making a video game, there are two routes. First, you can create your own game engine from scratch. This gives you finer control over the end product but takes quite a lot of time and requires in-depth knowledge about the language you’re using. If you’re beginning your coding journey by having an interest in creating games, then I highly recommend using a game engine.

This is a piece of software or coding framework that gives you the tools to create games. It handles the rendering, physics, and overall management of a video game. You’ll often hear people asking: what is the best game engine? Well, there’s no such thing really as the best game engine. Each has its advantages and disadvantages, so let’s have a look at a few.

Note that when it comes to how to code a game, the engine can often dictate what language you’ll actually be learning. So you’ll need to pro/con that aspect as well since most engines are locked into a specific language to work.

Shader Graph demo example from Unity Engine

Game demo as seen in Unreal Engine 4 Editor

Godot game example in Godot Editor

Phaser screenshot of group of dragons

gamemaker-studio · GitHub Topics · GitHub

Pygame logo

So there’s a list of various game engines to start with as you learn how to code a game. I’d recommend you do some research on them, try them out and just see what you like. At the end of the day, what you’re most comfortable with is generally the best option.

But if you want a good all-rounder engine that’s beginner-friendly and has an active community, go with Unity.

How to Code a Game Learning Resources

Now it’s time for you to begin your journey in how to code a game by expanding your programming for video games all around. When learning to code/program, the best way to learn… is by coding. Watch videos, read books, and do your research to gain knowledge. Don’t forget to learn about other parts of games we haven’t even talked about, such as mobile games.

Yet in order to gain an understanding of code, you’ll need to jump in and give it a go. Start small with your games and programs. I’d recommend starting with a simple retro game like Pong or Breakout before moving into anything too complex. However, with a go-getter attitude, everyone can learn to code games and create the game of their dreams!

As you dive into coding your own games, Zenva’s Game Development Mini-Degrees are a highly relevant resource to consider. These curriculums cover game development topics from Godot, Unity, and Unreal Engine to game design and artwork, providing you a comprehensive learning experience from zero experience to becoming an industry-ready game developer. The practical, hands-on training combined with a Certificate of Completion makes these Mini-Degrees an invaluable asset in your journey towards mastering game development.

Below is a list of various resources, though, where you can begin your coding journey.

Zenva Courses

Free Courses

YouTube Playlists

Additional Articles

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