3

I am wondering what is difference between scripting and non scripting language. For example like LUA and C++. Because in game development I often read that they are hiring programmer who must know scripting language. Thank you!

2
  • google is your friend. Commented Aug 23, 2013 at 16:15
  • 2
    That's what happens when you let HR write your job specs. Commented Aug 23, 2013 at 16:22

1 Answer 1

9

Some of this is somewhat historical in nature.

Non-scripted languages like C and C++ are compiled into "raw machine code" (RMC). That RMC is then run directly on the machine. Note that RMC is typically very specific to the underlying CPU/hardware AND to the supporting Operating System. So if you want to run a C program on both linux and windows, it has to be compiled for each (two copies to maintain and distribute).

A scripted language is typically NOT compiled. Instead, the source code is passed to an interpreter that understands the language. The interpreter itself is typically written in a language that is itself compiled to RMC. The interpreter's task is to read the scripted language, and translate that into operations done by RMC.

The line has blurred in recent years (decades?) with the advent of systems like Java. With languages like Java, source code is compiled to an intermediate/portable language, and the Java Virtual Machine handles the translation of that portable language into operations for the target CPU/OS.

Sign up to request clarification or add additional context in comments.

Comments

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge you have read our privacy policy.

Start asking to get answers

Find the answer to your question by asking.

Ask question

Explore related questions

See similar questions with these tags.