Platform Based Development: Game Platforms and Programming Languages

Vocabulary terms covering game platform types, industry market statistics for 2023, programming languages, and the game development lifecycle.

Game Platform

The environment or system on which a video game runs, consisting of hardware and a software ecosystem including the operating system, APIs, and tools.

PC Platforms

Highly customizable gaming computers offering superior performance and supporting distribution platforms such as Steam and Epic Games Store.

Console Platforms

Dedicated gaming machines designed for home use, such as Sony PlayStation, Microsoft Xbox, and Nintendo Switch.

Mobile Platforms

Smartphones and tablets (Android and iOS) used for gaming, characterized by simpler mechanics and touch controls.

Cloud Gaming Platforms

Services that allow players to stream games over the internet (e.g., Google Stadia and Nvidia GeForce Now), removing the need for dedicated hardware.

Virtual Reality Platforms

Systems that use head-mounted units providing stereoscopic screens and motion tracking to immerse players in a virtual environment.

2023 Total Global Games Market Revenue

$183.9\,\text{Bn}$ with a $+0.5\%$ Year-on-Year growth.

Mobile game revenues share (2023)

Accounting for $49\%$ of the global market, totaling $89.9\,\text{Bn}$.

C++

A programming language used for high performance and full hardware control in AAA games, open-world games, and shooters via Unreal Engine.

C#

An easy-to-learn language with strong engine support, primarily used for indie, mobile, and 2D/3D games via Unity.

Java

A language primarily used for cross-platform apps and Android mobile game development.

Python

A language utilized for game prototypes, scripting, and AI systems.

JavaScript

A language used for browser-based games, web interactivity, and HTML5 games.

GDScript

A language used for simple scripting of game logic specifically for the Godot engine.

HLSL / GLSL

Languages used for graphics and shader programming to create advanced lighting and visual effects.

Game Engine

A software framework that provides ready-made systems like graphics rendering, physics, and audio so developers do not have to build from scratch.

Planning Phase

The first stage of the game development process which defines what is being built, the budget, audience, and platform.

Pre-production Phase

The development stage involving storyboarding, storytelling, early prototyping, and milestone scheduling.

Production Phase

The stage of the development lifecycle focused on modeling, designing, audio, physics, mechanics, and rendering.

QA Testers

A key role in development responsible for identifying bugs, feature exploitation, and assessing game balance and enjoyment.

MMO

A player mode classification standing for Online Multiplayer (Massively Multiplayer Online).