The Java language is normally the first language that any programmer learns. Since many different programmers are interested in developing their own game, many programmers will use the Java language to create a simple one. There are many different Java game development tools. For example, a programmer could use Java 3D, Swing, AWT, LWJGL, Slick, and JGame for game development.
Java 3D, Swing, AWT
Java 3D, Swing, and AWT are game libraries that are not designed for game development. However, they do have a slight advantage. This advantage is the fact that Java 3D, Swing, and AWT are already installed on the Java system automatically. This means that the new programmer does not need to deal with specific configurations. This makes it easier for the programmer to use Java and these game development tools to make easy games. However, Java 3D, Swing, and AWT do have their own disadvantages. For example, these programming tools are specifically designed for making Graphical User Interfaces. Java 3D, Swing, and AWT are not the best tools for creating Java based games. This is mainly because the developer needs to focus on synchronizing audio and video.
The Lightweight Java Game Library
The Lightweight Java Game Library, or LWJGL, is an extremely powerful Java game engine. The Lightweight Java Game Library gives Java game developers the chance to access the Open AL audio library and the Open GL graphics library. The LWJGL also provides specific functions that allow the developers the ability to access and create game pads and joysticks. The engine is normally used in both games made for hobbies and commercial ones. As long as someone understands the Java programming language, the LWJGL can be of some use.
Slick
The Slick Java game development tool is an easy to use tool that many different programmers can understand. The Slick gaming interface is built on top of the LWJGL interface. Since the open AL audio library and the open GL graphics library can get a little complicated, Slick replaces the open AL and open GL with simple method calls. In addition, the Slick Java based game development tool features built in game skeletons. The built in game skeletons are designed to be useful for game designers who need to handle the options screen and the main menu for a Java based video game. However, the negative aspect to the Slick Java game development tool is the fact that Slick only supports 2D graphics. This can get frustrating when a game designer wants to create one that features high quality 3D graphics.
JGame
Instead of using the LWJGL, the JGame uses the AWT, Swing, and Java Open GL libraries. In fact, the JGame application is built on top of these libraries. The JGame Java tool is used to make many different games. In fact, JGame can be used to create Web browser video, desktop video, and even cell phone games. However, the cell phone or computer needs to have Java installed. JGame also supports simple methods like DrawImage and PlayAudio.
For more information on Java game development, visit http://javagames.com/p205077-java-game-development.cfm
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