What skills will game programmers need in the future?

2 Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning

Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are technologies that enable computers to perform tasks that normally require human intelligence, such as decision making, problem solving, learning, and adaptation. AI and ML are increasingly used in game development, both for creating realistic and engaging gameplay, and for enhancing the development process itself. For example, AI and ML can be used to generate procedural content, such as levels, environments, characters, or animations, based on predefined rules or data. They can also be used to create adaptive and dynamic game systems, such as enemy behavior, difficulty, or narrative. Moreover, AI and ML can help game programmers to debug, test, and optimize their code, by identifying errors, anomalies, or bottlenecks. Therefore, game programmers need to familiarize themselves with the basic concepts and applications of AI and ML, as well as learn how to integrate them with their game engine and code.

3 Graphics and Audio

Graphics and audio are essential components of any game, as they create the visual and auditory experience for the players. Game programmers need to have a solid understanding of the principles and techniques of computer graphics and audio, such as rendering, lighting, shading, animation, sound synthesis, and spatial audio. They also need to know how to use the tools and libraries that are available for creating and manipulating graphics and audio assets, such as Photoshop, Blender, Audacity, or FMOD. Additionally, game programmers need to be aware of the trends and innovations that are shaping the graphics and audio domains, such as ray tracing, voxel-based graphics, neural networks, or spatial computing. These technologies can offer new possibilities and challenges for game development, and game programmers need to learn how to leverage them for their games.

4 Networking and Multiplayer

Networking and multiplayer are features that enable games to communicate and interact with other games or players over the internet or a local network. They can add variety, replayability, and social aspects to games, as well as open new markets and business models. However, networking and multiplayer also pose many technical and design challenges for game programmers, such as latency, synchronization, security, scalability, and cheating. Therefore, game programmers need to have a good grasp of the fundamentals and protocols of network programming, such as TCP/IP, UDP, HTTP, or WebSockets. They also need to learn how to use the networking and multiplayer features and services that are provided by their game engine or third-party platforms, such as Photon, Steam, or Firebase.

5 Scripting and Game Design

Scripting and game design are skills that enable game programmers to create and implement the logic and rules of their games, as well as the interactions and feedback for the players. Scripting is a form of programming that uses a high-level language, such as C#, Python, or Lua, to control the behavior and events of the game objects and systems. Game design is the process of defining the goals, mechanics, dynamics, and aesthetics of the game, as well as the user interface and user experience. Scripting and game design are closely related, as they both require creativity, logic, and problem solving. Therefore, game programmers need to be proficient in at least one scripting language, as well as familiar with the game design principles and methods, such as game loops, game balance, game feedback, or game prototyping.

6 Soft Skills and Collaboration

Soft skills and collaboration are skills that enable game programmers to work effectively and efficiently with other people, both within and outside their team. Game development is a complex and multidisciplinary endeavor, that involves many roles and stakeholders, such as artists, designers, producers, testers, publishers, or players. Therefore, game programmers need to have strong communication, teamwork, and project management skills, as well as a positive and flexible attitude. They also need to be able to give and receive feedback, learn from others, and share their knowledge and expertise. Moreover, game programmers need to be familiar with the tools and platforms that facilitate collaboration and coordination, such as Git, GitHub, Trello, Slack, or Discord.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?