After using Unity 3d for a year, C# for a few more, and C++ before that for small games - I think I want to try something new. Or, well, I’m starting a new project and XNA is dead - so I’m considering Java.
I’ve been programming for over a decade, but have always shunned Java - seeing it as bloated, slow, and a memory hog, however I’m starting to feel like I was wrong. So I’ve come here hoping you guys (And gals) can answer a few questions for me.
- How does LibGDX compare to XNA? Performance, speed of development, etc… (For 2d games, of course)
- I’ve noticed a lot of Java game related stuff seems to be focused on phone development… This worries me a bit, as it seems like PC Java development is being ignored. Am I wrong on this one?
- What’s the job market like now’a’days? Will having Java on my resume help much? What about for freelance stuff?
- What are my options for PHP-like Java options? I.e. Setting up a site through Java to run through Apache. What kinds of speeds and memory usage can I expect compared to PHP?
- How many games, written primarily in Java, are on Steam? I know of Spiral Knights, but that’s about it.
- Edit: Are there any engines built on top of LibGDX that are worth while? After years and years of programming, and having a serious case of NIH for most of that time, I’ve learned to use the most complete solution available to me. While there’s always Unity as an option, it doesn’t give me the control I want - so I’m looking for something in Java (Since XNA is dead). So far LibGDX seems to be the best for what I want (Quick 2d game with lots of control, and shaders) - but if there’s something “more complete”, I’d like to know now.
I’m sure this forum seems questions like this on a regular, however in the hour+ I’ve searched I haven’t seen answers to all of these answers, especially from someone like myself (Who has a decade of experience under his belt).
Thanks in advanced for the help.