Games programmers are actually software engineers who have as their chief responsibility the development of a computer or video game. Games programming involves several very specialized programming areas, including graphics, sound, user interfaces, and scripting. Programming a game is different from designing a game, although many designers are programmers as well.

A modern computer game requires expertise in advanced physics, artificial intelligence, three-dimensional graphics, original music, and several input devices. It may also be designed for play across networks. Each one of these elements requires a programmer who specializes in that one area. Games programmers usually have an understanding of several of these aspects. The number of programmers required for each feature or game varies according to the type of game being developed.

Many games programmers currently employed in the industry do not have formal education in the subject; most began their work as hobbyists just having fun with code. Most employers that are looking for games programmers now require a B.A. degree in math, physics, computer science, or some type of equivalent.

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