Game Programming Patterns

A free online book about structuring game code.

  • Free resource
  • Good for beginners
  • Jam-friendly

What it does

Robert Nystrom's book explains common patterns used in games (game loop, components, state machines and more) in clear, friendly language. It is free to read online.

Highlights

  • Free to read online
  • Clear explanations with examples
  • Covers the game loop, state and components
  • Print and e-book versions available

Is it right for me?

Skill level
Intermediate, Advanced
Useful for
Game jams, Indie developers, Students, Hobby projects
Game jams
A good fit — quick to pick up and use under time pressure.

Pairs well with

Awesome Game Jam

Game jams

A community-curated list of tools and assets for game jams.

  • Free resource
  • Good for beginners

Brackeys

Learning

Beginner-friendly video tutorials for Unity and Godot.

  • Free resource
  • Good for beginners

Game Jam Resources

Game jams

A curated hub of resources so jammers spend more time creating.

  • Free resource
  • Good for beginners