Programming Computer Games

The Different Sides of Computer Game Programming



Computer gaming is a huge industry these days. Many people who play computer games don't think too much about how much work goes into creating these games. A lot of thought and creativity goes into the creation of a good computer game. However there is also a lot of computer programming involved in making the game more life like and fun to play. There are a lot of different aspects to computer game programming that you not have considered before now. This article explores the different parts of computer game programming.



Game Physics Programmer

The game physics programmer is someone who directs how a game uses physics in order to look and feel correct. In most cases, a computer game will not completely simulate the physics of a real world, but some important aspects of physics may have to come into play for some games. For instance, wind resistance might be important to dogfights, while the fluid but retarded movements of some characters in water might be needed for a role-playing game.



Game Scripter and UI Programmer

Computer game programming will also require a team of scripters, who are also usually the designers of the game. These scripters write the code of the game itself, usually with a basic computer language. Also needed are user interface programmers, or the UI: the UI programmers will create a library of different aspects that can be used across a wide variety of worlds within the game, or a wide variety of games within a manufacturer. The UI programming language involves a good deal of math, with the aim of producing special effects.



Artificial Intelligence Programmer

The artificial intelligence programmer is the one in charge of developing the logical sequence of the game itself. For instance, when a game involves finding a path, employing strategies, or giving rise to enemy tactics, an artificial intelligence programmer may be called in to make a game smart – in other words, to make the game think on its own. In general, the computer language used for artificial intelligence programming is simpler than other languages, and it can be shared with the game’s players.



Graphics Programmer

The graphics programmer uses a series of codes and algorithms in order to provide graphics in the world of the game. In the modern age, a graphics programmer has to work in a three-dimensional environment, and should therefore have knowledge of calculus, vector math, and other algebra concepts that may be needed for specializing in rendering such images. There are only very few graphics programmers, and they may usually demand high wages for their work.



Sound and Gameplay Programmers

A sound programmer will provide sounds in terms of characters’ dialogues, music, and even sounds that can make the game seem more real, such as the sound of crunching leaves or grass as characters walk on them. The gamepley programmer will add to the experience of the game, and will do so by focusing on the game’s feel and strategy.



Input, Network and Porting Programmers

Also important is an input programmer, who writes codes for how different kinds of hardware, such as the keyboard, joystick, or mouse, will affect the game. The network programmer will find ways for the game to work on a network, where people can play against each other. A porting programmer ensures that the game can work on different platforms and operating systems.



Lead Game Programmer

Overseeing all these tasks is the lead game programmer. The lead programmer or game director is responsible to make sure that all the pieces of the game fit together in a smooth environment. It is her responsibility to ensure that everything about the game is as real as possible to enhance the gaming experience.



These are just a few of the different types of computer game programmers. As games become more and more complex there may be a need for additional types of programmers. Computer game programming offers a variety of options for anyone interested in getting involved in computer programming.



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