I'm 23 and have a computer science degree. I've been studying Java and building backend projects with Spring Boot, but the work has started to drain me. I dislike spending most of my time dealing with configuration files, third-party libraries, framework annotations, Docker setup, boilerplate, and tests instead of implementing the actual application logic. I enjoy designing the rules and behavior behind an API, but that seems to make up only a small part of typical backend development. Because I struggle to stay motivated and often take months-long breaks, I'm starting to wonder whether programming is simply a poor fit for me—or whether I should try a different area.
The programming I've enjoyed most has involved game logic: multiplayer server scripting, Minecraft plugins, custom rules, commands, and gameplay behavior. I'm less interested in user interfaces, 3D models, animation, lighting, and other asset-related work. Embedded development and command-line software are two areas I've considered, and I'm also wondering whether game programming could be a good direction. Which fields would be worth exploring for someone who prefers focused logic and fewer framework abstractions?
3 Answers
There’s no reason you can’t try several options before choosing one to focus on. Build a small command-line tool, an embedded project, and a simple game or server plugin, then compare which work keeps your attention. Also, struggling with motivation doesn’t mean you’re stupid or incapable; it may be worth considering whether attention-related issues are affecting how you study.
You don’t need to decide your entire career before experimenting. Pick a small project in an area that sounds interesting and spend a couple of weeks building it. I unexpectedly found embedded development with Rust enjoyable, even though I never expected to like it. Trying things directly will tell you more than relying only on recommendations.
I didn’t realize Rust was used much in embedded work. I’ve heard C is still common for entry-level roles, so I may try a small C project as well.
Your description already points toward game programming. You can focus on gameplay systems, server logic, artificial intelligence, rules, and simulation without being responsible for art, animation, or interface design. It’s worth checking the job market before committing, but as a learning direction it seems much closer to the work you’ve consistently enjoyed.
That makes sense. I do want to narrow things down eventually, but I’ll try a few small projects first instead of assuming I have to quit programming.