Most of us know the Python programming language because of its wide applications in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and data science. But I must say that the use of Python programming language is more than these.
Python is a widely used and popular language. The reason for that is the unique Python libraries that have left the programmer’s hands open for anything. One of the most interesting uses of the Python language, which is perhaps less talked about, is game design and development.
Designing and programming video games may seem like a complicated task. Of course, one cannot deny the unique complexities of game programming, but it can be claimed that Python game engines have made the game development process much easier and more attractive compared to other programming languages.
This article is for people who are interested in game programming with Python. Next, we will introduce popular and famous Python game engines.
Table of Contents
What is Python game engine?
Python game engines are actually Python libraries that are used as tools for developing video games. These engines provide facilities, tools, functions and classes that help the developer to easily develop the graphics, sound, physics and other parts of the game.
In addition to the fact that Python language can be used to create video games, there are also artificial intelligence tools that have made game creation much easier.
Comparison of Python game engine and other game tools
Python is not the only tool for game development. There are other popular tools that are specifically designed just for game development. Like:
Unreal Engine
Unity
Godot
These popular game development tools differ from Python game engines in the following ways:
Programming Language Support: Common game engines mentioned support programming languages like C++, C, and JavaScript, not Python.
Support for different platforms: Many independent game engines are able to produce games for different platforms, including mobile phones and dedicated game systems, at the lowest cost. Whereas, porting a game written in Python to different platforms, especially mobile, may be a heavy and complex project.
Limitations: Games written using a standalone game engine may have limitations depending on the type of game engine, while Python does not.
Why game development with Python?
Well, until now, you may not have realized what advantages Python game engines have compared to other famous game development tools. The main reason is that you only need to know the Python language to make games with Python. While if you want to use other game development tools, in addition to knowing one of the C++ or C# languages, you must also learn the specific concepts of that tool and the type of scripting specific to that tool. As a result, the learning curve of game development with Python is faster compared to other tools.
5 Python libraries for game development
PyGame
The Pygame library is a powerful and open-source Python programming tool specifically designed for game development. This library allows the programmer to develop attractive games, with the possibility of managing graphics and sound, using various tools and functions. Pygame is simple yet powerful, making it one of the best options for developers and game developers.
PyGame Zero
Pygame Zero is another Python library that is simpler and more suitable for beginners compared to the previous library. With a simple user interface and a set of general and useful features, this library is very suitable for beginner programmers. The famous Snake game can be easily implemented with this tool.
Unlike Pygame, which is powerful and flexible, Pygame Zero focuses on simplicity and ease of use.
Arcade
Arcade is a Python framework for building classic games. This framework is object oriented and provides a variety of tools for game developers. Like all other Python libraries and frameworks, Arcade focuses on simplicity and ease of use. In addition, games developed with Arcade are very fast.
Adventurelib
Adventurelib is another Python library used for creating text-based adventure games. A text-based game uses text and writing to create different environments, stories, characters, and actions, and allows users to make decisions and choices throughout the game (story) to help progress and solve the game’s puzzles.
This library contains tools and functions that allow developers to create and implement different stories, environments, and movements for adventure games.
Ren’Py
Ren’Py is a video game creation tool used to create story games with attractive images and text. This tool allows the programmer to create games with interesting stories and beautiful images using the Python programming language and graphic tools. Ren’Py has the ability to add features such as visuals, music, and special effects to the game’s story. Among the important features of Ren’Py are special facilities for animation design, sound effects, and multiple decision-making methods.
Popular games made with Python
There may be an impression that games developed with Python are simple, basic and ordinary games. But it is not.
In the list of the most popular games in the world, there are games that are either completely made with Python or Python is used in part of its code.
Civilization IV:
Civilization IV is a strategy game released in 2005. In this game you build and rule a civilization from scratch. The map editor of this game is written in Python.
Battlefield 2:
Battlefield 2 is a shooting game. This game allows you to play in multiplayer battles or with other players from around the world.
The Sims 4:
The Sims 4 was one of the most famous games in the world at the time of its release. This game was released in 2014 and is a human life simulation game. In this game, the player has to manage the Sims family and lead them to their goals. Part of the code of this game is written in Python language.
Frets on Fire:
The famous game Frets on Fire is made in Python and with the PyGame library. In this game, which is an electric guitar simulator, musical notes appear on the screen in color. Each color represents a specific button on the keyboard or gamepad. You have to play the notes by pressing the right buttons at the right time. The more accurately you hit the notes, the more points you get. The ultimate goal is to score as many points as you can and play the song perfectly and without mistakes.
Flappy Bird:
Flappy Bird is a simple yet addictive game. In this game, you take control of a bird and have to find your way through vertical pipes without crashing into them. Flappy Bird is a simple game in terms of gameplay and graphics, and Pygame Zero is the right tool to implement it.