How Long Does it Take to Learn C++ for Games?

Key Takeaways

Whether you’re interested in video game development or video game design, a working knowledge of computer programming languages is key for your career. C++ is a popular programming language found in almost every current game, and game development often requires mastery of this specific language. Some important things to know:

• According to the Entertainment Software Association, in 2024, consumer spending on video games reached $58.7 billion [1].

• C++ is a superset of the C language. It’s object-oriented and considered to be the best language for building large-scale applications.

• If you’re interested in learning C++ online, you’ll find a wide range of options that fit your learning style and goals.

Gaming is a thrilling hobby for millions of players and a lucrative industry for developers. You will find that instead of a standard length of time to learn C++ for a gaming career, it depends on a variety of unique factors, such as experience and dedication, that influence how long you’ll need to practice.

Consider earning the C++ Programming for Unreal Game Development Specialization offered through the University of Colorado, or read on to learn more about how long it takes to learn C++ for games, as well as ways to learn and other skills you might find helpful as you pursue a career in game development.

What is C++?

C++ is a superset of the C language. It’s object-oriented and considered to be the best language for building large-scale applications. Invented in 1979, C++ falls into the middle-language level category, as it uses both low-level and high-level language features.

How long does it take to learn C++ for games?

The time it takes to learn C++ depends entirely on your background and level of familiarity and expertise with programming languages. For example, those newer to programming might take six months to a year, while experienced programmers might take two to six months.

Bjarne Stroustrup, the creator of C++, estimated that a programmer might take days to weeks to learn C++, while someone who is starting from scratch might take months to years. He says the timeline depends on what you want to do and how much you already know.

C++ is an advanced programming language that has a steep learning curve. Committing to daily practice will help you become familiar with the different aspects of this language, including syntax and how to create a functioning program, in a shorter span of time.

Can C++ be used for games?

Yes, games use C++ for their game engines. It’s a popular choice for some of the most well-known game engines, such as Unity, Unreal Engine, and Godot.

Other programming languages for gaming

Systems programming and web programming are both used by game developers to create their games. Not only is it helpful to expand your knowledge base for game designing in general, but knowing other programming languages helps to shorten the timeline required to become fluent in C++. For example, if you are already proficient in Python or Java, you may only need two to three months to learn the basics of C++.

Some of these languages include:

• Java: a high-level programming language that also acts as a platform

• Python: an interpreted programming language with dynamic semantics

• Lua: an embeddable scripting language that combines procedural syntax with data description constructs

• C#: a cross-platform, general-purpose programming language

Other skills for game development

Game development requires a dynamic skill set for addressing the variety of stages involved in building a game, such as character development, gameplay, and setting. These skills can give you an advantage in learning C++ because they provide knowledge and practice. Some of these skills include:

• Passion for video games: It may seem obvious, but having a wide-ranging knowledge of different types of video games and experience playing across multiple genres is helpful for working in gaming.

• Communication and collaboration: You’ll spend a lot of time working in teams of both developers and designers, translating ideas to code.

• Time management: The ability to stay on task and deliver your components of a larger game matters for overall success.

• Content design: You’ll need to be able to create meaningful content that makes players want to go out and buy your game.

• Problem-solving: When issues come up, you’ll need to have the ability to address them quickly and efficiently.

How to learn C++ online

If you’re interested in learning C++ online, you’ll find a wide range of options that fit your learning style and goals. Look for online courses, books, videos, and tutorials to teach you how to learn C++.

C++ tutorials

Look for tutorials that walk you through the basic grammar and syntax of C++. These courses tend to be free and provide a good introduction to the language, offering you a solid knowledge base to work from as you continue to develop your skills and seek out more advanced training.

Learn C++ for gaming through gameplay

Some courses and specializations offer the chance to learn C++ while developing and playing video games. These opportunities offer hands-on experiences that let you explore the way C++ works within a video game engine. For example, Michigan State University has a course called Game Design and Development with Unity Specialization, which teaches the theory and practice of game-making using Unity, which utilizes C# and C++, in two months at 10 hours a week.

C++ specializations

C++ specializations include focused areas of study. In college, they typically attach to a larger degree, but it’s possible now to find limited runs of courses to learn a specific topic in a shorter time frame. 

For example, the University of Colorado has a C++ Programming for Unreal Game Development Specialization, which is four courses over two months at 10 hours a week. Or, UC Santa Cruz has C, Go, and C++: A Comprehensive Introduction to Programming Specialization, which is six courses for two months at 10 hours a week.

Learn C++ with a bachelor’s degree.

If you prefer the access, resources, and structure of a formalized degree, then pursuing a bachelor’s degree is a great way to learn C++. You’ll have access to educators who help provide an advanced understanding of programming languages. Computer science and software engineering are solid choices for C++, and some offer specific specializations for video game design. If you take this route, it may take multiple years to complete your degree; for example, a computer science degree typically takes four years to complete.

Highlight: What famous games use C++?

Some famous games that use C++ include Pokémon Go, Rust, and Cuphead. Other games that include C++ are Fortnite, Left 4 Dead, Unreal Tournament, and Batman: Arkham Origins.

Learn more about C++ with our free resources.

Continue exploring C++ and begin gaining practical skills on Coursera. See where to begin by checking out How to Start Learning C++: Custom Course Guide to see how to get started. Or, browse these additional free resources:

• Take the Quiz: UX Career Quiz: Is It Right for You? Find Your Role

• Watch on YouTube: Career Spotlight: Game Developer or Mastering the Code: Essential Skills Every Software Developer Needs

• Learn the key term: Glossary of UX Terms and Definitions

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