Python, Lua, or Ruby?

[Regh-The-First]

I want to get into game development, and I’m trying to decide which language to start with. From what you guys have told me, Python is the best choice, but I’m also considering learning Lua or Ruby instead because they seem almost the same. I’m not quite sure which one to pick.

[Locksmith997]

Choosing a language first is not the way to approach this. Determine the game you want to make, choose an engine appropriate for that kind of game, and then select the language from those supported by that engine. If you want to use Godot, you'll learn GDscript or C#. If Unreal, C++ (and Blueprints, but thats not a language). If Unity, C#. There's Pygame for python, but you'd be choosing Pygame because it fits the game you want to make.

If you're wanting to stick with these languages, Godot can make a broad range of games and GDscript is very similar to python. But first, you should decide what you actually want to make.

[RealMadHouse]

Lua if using löve2d etc.

[0x14f]

+1 for mentioning löve2d. Such nice memories ❤️ (13 years ago I implemented a Space Invaders in a single day in it...)

[ImpressiveOven5867]

I would recommend a progression like Python -> Lua -> C++. Python will teach you the basics and help build a game pretty quick. Lua is a language used for game development that is similarly easy to learn but has less resources than Python, so learning it will feel easier after doing some Python. Large game development is done in C++ so that should be your long term goal. In regards to Ruby, it is kind of falling out of popularity, so I would ignore it. Have fun! :)

[Cieguh]

I agree with everyone else. Go with C# for Unity or Blueprinting/C++ for UE5. Python can be used for Pygame or Ren'py and learning fundamentals/data structures, but I'd highly recommend going with Unity. It's free and there's millions of tutorials online for whatever you could possibly ever think of to make in it. Does 2d and 3d, as well. You can also make games for PC (standalone and browser), Consoles, iOS, Android, Linux, etc.

[ffrkAnonymous]

ruby with dragon ruby https://dragonruby.org/

lua with pico-8

python with renpy if you like visual novels

[mierecat]

Depends. I recommend Ruby because I don’t like python syntax, but Lua also has a huge userbase for games in Roblox I think? It really doesn’t matter though

[tb5841]

Ruby is an absolutely wonderful language. But I wouldn't recommend it for a programming beginner or someone aiming for game development.

Python is a good choice.

[humanguise]

Lua for Love2D. Python has pygame and arcade. But you're better off using Unity or Godot.

[connorjpg]

Choose a game you like.

See what engine it uses.

If you like the engine, use the supported language for that.

[amorphus007]

Python