I'm looking to dive into game development and I'm torn between starting with Python, Lua, or Ruby. I've heard that Python is a great option, but I'm also curious about Lua and Ruby because they seem similar. I'm not quite sure which one I should choose as a beginner.
5 Answers
Honestly, it depends on personal preference! Some people struggle with Python's syntax and lean towards Ruby instead. Lua is also popular, especially in Roblox development. It really comes down to which environment or engine you find interesting the most.
I'd suggest starting with Python for your basics, then move on to Lua, and ultimately to C++ for more complex projects. Python is quick to grasp, and Lua builds on that easily. Contrary to Ruby, which seems to be losing traction lately, you might find Python more resourceful and supportive for game development.
It's important to first determine what kind of game you want to create and then choose an engine that fits that type. For example, if you're looking to use Godot, you might want to learn GDScript, which is close to Python. For C++ games, the Unreal Engine would be a good fit. Unity supports C#, but for quick projects, Pygame can utilize Python, though it should align with your game goals.
If you're leaning towards Lua, I'd say it's great for engines like Love2D! I have fond memories of quickly creating games with it. But if you want more general support, check out Python as it can serve you well in various areas.
I think going with C# for Unity is the way to go. It has tons of tutorials and support, plus you can create just about any type of game—2D or 3D. Python is cool for Pygame, but Unity's broad applicability for platforms makes it stand out for beginners.
Totally with you! Love2D was my springboard into game dev. I once whipped up Space Invaders in just a day and it was such a blast!