The Easiest Programming Language and Platform for Starting Video Games

When you decide to embark on the journey of creating your first video game, choosing the right programming language and platform can make all the difference. This decision is crucial as it can either be a smooth sail or a steep learning curve. In this article, we will explore some of the most approachable and accessible platforms and programming languages for starting your video game development adventure.

My Personal Journey

Prior to my professional experience in game development, I started with QBASIC, a simple command-line language widely used in the early 1990s. QBASIC allowed me to quickly get onto the screen with just two lines of code. The simplicity of this language means that once you understand the basics, you can create simple graphics and programs almost immediately. Moving on from there, I transitioned to JavaScript and HTML5 platform - Canvas and WebAudio.

JavaScript and the HTML5 platform, particularly the Canvas and WebAudio APIs, offer slightly more complexity but are still relatively accessible. With these tools, you can create basic animations and audio effects, and the documentation and community resources are vast. Tools like Canvas Tutorial provide comprehensive guides to get you started.

Recommended Platforms and Languages

While QBASIC and JavaScript with HTML5 are great starting points, there are other platforms and languages that are equally accessible and versatile.

GameMaker Studio

GameMaker Studio is a highly praised platform, especially for its simplicity and ease of use. The development environment is user-friendly, and the built-in tutorials are top-notch. Although the interface is not fully intuitive, the community support is robust, and the platform allows for very basic game creation without extensive coding knowledge. This feature is particularly useful for beginners as they can focus on game design rather than programming.

Unity

Unity is another excellent choice, especially if you need robust 3D support. While it offers a more comprehensive suite of tools and features, it is still accessible for beginners, thanks to its industry-standard drag-and-drop editor. Support from the company is mixed, but the community is very active and helpful. The 3D capabilities make Unity a standout if you are interested in creating complex 3D games or simulations.

Other Options

For those who enjoy a challenge, Visual C 6.0 on Windows 98 with 3dfx Glide API is a retro choice that requires a bit more effort to master. This choice is more for enthusiasts who enjoy tackling old-school development challenges. It is a fantastic experiment, but the lack of comprehensive online documentation can be frustrating.

Teaching Game Development

Based on my experience teaching game development to high school students, it has become clear that making the right choice is essential. We currently use GameMaker Studio, which is very accessible and offers strong community support. However, it has limitations for commercial development, such as inadequate 3D support and variable company support. For a more robust, all-around solution, Unity is the way to go.

Conclusion: When choosing between platforms and programming languages for your video game development journey, consider your goals, resources, and the level of experience you have. Whether you prefer the simplicity of QBASIC or the robustness of Unity, there is a platform out there that can help you achieve your dream of creating your first game. Happy coding!