What Programming Language is Used in Game Engines: C or C++?

The world of gaming is constantly evolving, and with it, the technology that powers it. One of the most crucial aspects of game development is the game engine, which is the backbone of any game. But what programming language is used in game engines? Is it C or C++? In this article, we will explore the answer to this question and dive into the details of these two programming languages and their role in game development. Whether you’re a seasoned developer or just starting out, this article will provide valuable insights into the world of game engines and the programming languages that make them tick. So, let’s get started!

Game Engines Overview

Definition of Game Engines

A game engine is a software framework that is used to create video games. It provides a collection of tools, libraries, and APIs that developers can use to create, design, and build games. Game engines offer a range of features such as graphics rendering, physics simulation, sound management, and input handling, among others.

Game engines are designed to be flexible and customizable, allowing developers to create games for different platforms, such as PC, consoles, and mobile devices. They are also designed to be scalable, enabling developers to create games of varying complexity and size.

There are many game engines available, ranging from commercial engines such as Unity and Unreal Engine to open-source engines like Godot and DarkRadiant. These engines support a variety of programming languages, including C, C++, and other languages like Python, Java, and Lua.

C and C++ are two of the most popular programming languages used in game engines. They are both high-performance languages that are well-suited for developing complex software applications, including video games.

Brief History of Game Engines

Game engines have come a long way since the early days of gaming. The first game engines were simple programs that allowed developers to create basic games, but they lacked many of the features that modern game engines offer. Over time, game engines have become more sophisticated, and they now play a critical role in the development of video games.

One of the earliest game engines was the Apple II Game Creator, which was released in 1980. This engine allowed developers to create simple text-based games and was one of the first engines to be widely adopted by the gaming community. Other early game engines included the Commodore 64 Game System and the Atari 2600 Game System.

As gaming technology advanced, so did the game engines that powered them. In the 1990s, game engines like the game engine behind the popular game “Doom” became more popular, and they paved the way for more advanced game engines like the Unreal Engine and the Crystal Dynamics Game Engine.

Today, game engines like the Unity engine and the Unreal Engine are widely used by developers to create some of the most popular games on the market. These engines offer a wide range of features, including advanced graphics, physics engines, and scripting tools, that make it easier for developers to create complex games.

Despite the many advances in game engine technology, the question of which programming language is best for game engines remains a topic of debate. Some developers prefer C, while others prefer C++, and there are even some who prefer to use other languages like Java or Python. Ultimately, the choice of programming language depends on the specific needs of the developer and the project they are working on.

Types of Game Engines

Game engines can be broadly classified into two categories: proprietary and open-source.

Proprietary Game Engines

Proprietary game engines are developed by a specific company and are not available for public use. These engines are typically used by professional game developers to create commercial games. Examples of proprietary game engines include Unity, Unreal Engine, and CryEngine.

Open-Source Game Engines

Open-source game engines, on the other hand, are available for public use and can be modified and distributed freely. These engines are typically used by independent game developers and hobbyists who want to create games without the need for expensive licenses. Examples of open-source game engines include Godot, OpenMW, and Ren’Py.

The choice of which type of game engine to use depends on the specific needs of the developer and the type of game being created. Proprietary engines offer a more streamlined development process and typically have better support and documentation, while open-source engines offer greater flexibility and can be customized to fit the specific needs of the developer.

C and C++ Programming Languages

Brief Overview of C and C++

C is a procedural programming language that was developed in the early 1970s by Dennis Ritchie at Bell Labs. It was designed to be a simple, efficient, and portable language for system programming and is still widely used today. C is a popular language for writing operating systems, embedded systems, and game engines.

C++ is an object-oriented programming language that was developed by Bjarne Stroustrup as an extension of C. It was designed to add object-oriented features to C, making it easier to write large, complex programs. C++ is used in a wide range of applications, including game engines, desktop applications, and server-side web development.

Both C and C++ are low-level languages, which means that they provide direct access to the hardware and allow programmers to control memory allocation and manipulation. This makes them ideal for writing performance-critical code, such as game engines. However, this also means that they can be more difficult to learn and use than higher-level languages.

C and C++ are both mature languages with large communities and extensive libraries. This means that there is a wealth of resources available for learning and using these languages, including online tutorials, books, and forums.

Overall, both C and C++ are powerful and versatile programming languages that are well-suited to the demands of game engine development. The choice between the two ultimately depends on the specific needs and preferences of the developer.

Key Differences Between C and C++

When it comes to game development, the choice between C and C++ programming languages can have a significant impact on the performance and efficiency of the game engine. While both languages share some similarities, there are also some key differences that set them apart.

• Object-Oriented Programming (OOP): C++ is an extension of C and introduces the concept of OOP. It allows for the creation of classes and objects, which can be used to encapsulate data and functions, making code more modular and easier to maintain. C, on the other hand, is a procedural programming language and does not support OOP natively.
• Memory Management: In C, memory allocation and deallocation are done using functions such as malloc() and free(). C++ introduces the concept of smart pointers, such as unique_ptr and shared_ptr, which automate memory management and help prevent memory leaks.
• Standard Libraries: C++ includes a larger standard library than C, which provides a wide range of pre-built functionality such as string handling, input/output streams, and mathematical functions. This can save developers time and reduce the amount of code they need to write.
• Compile-Time Polymorphism: C++ supports compile-time polymorphism through the use of templates, which allow generic programming. This means that a single piece of code can be used for multiple types, leading to more efficient and reusable code. C, on the other hand, only supports run-time polymorphism through function overloading and virtual functions.
• Exception Handling: C++ introduces the concept of exception handling, which allows for the detection and handling of errors at runtime. This can make code more robust and easier to maintain. C does not have a built-in exception handling mechanism.

In conclusion, while both C and C++ are commonly used in game development, C++ offers more advanced features such as OOP, memory management, and exception handling, making it a more powerful and flexible language for building complex game engines.

Applications of C and C++ in Game Development

C and C++ are two programming languages that are commonly used in game development. These languages are widely used due to their efficiency, performance, and ability to handle complex tasks.

One of the main reasons why C and C++ are used in game development is their ability to handle low-level operations. Game engines require low-level operations to perform tasks such as memory management, handling input/output, and manipulating hardware. C and C++ provide developers with the ability to directly manipulate hardware and memory, which is essential for creating high-performance games.

Another reason why C and C++ are used in game development is their efficiency. These languages are compiled, which means that they are converted into machine code that can be executed directly by the computer. This results in faster execution times and better performance compared to interpreted languages such as Python or JavaScript.

C and C++ are also popular in game development due to their flexibility. These languages are used in various parts of the game development process, including game engines, game logic, and user interfaces. They allow developers to create complex algorithms and data structures that are essential for creating high-quality games.

C and C++ are also widely used in game development due to their extensive libraries and frameworks. These libraries and frameworks provide developers with pre-built functions and tools that can be used to simplify the development process and speed up development time.

Overall, C and C++ are essential programming languages in game development due to their ability to handle low-level operations, efficiency, flexibility, and extensive libraries and frameworks. They are used in various parts of the game development process, including game engines, game logic, and user interfaces, to create high-quality games that provide immersive gaming experiences.

C Programming Language in Game Engines

Overview of C in Game Development

C is a procedural programming language that was developed in the early 1970s by Dennis Ritchie at Bell Labs. It is a general-purpose language that is widely used in various applications, including game development.

One of the main reasons why C is used in game engines is its efficiency. C is a low-level language, which means that it provides direct access to hardware resources. This makes it easier for game developers to optimize their code for performance, which is crucial in game engines where every millisecond counts.

Another advantage of using C in game engines is its flexibility. C is a powerful language that provides a lot of control over system resources, such as memory management and input/output operations. This allows game developers to create complex game mechanics and physics simulations.

C is also a popular language among game developers because of its compatibility with other languages. Many game engines are built using a combination of languages, including C, C++, and Python. C’s ability to interface with other languages makes it a valuable tool for building complex game engines.

Despite its advantages, C also has some limitations. It does not have built-in support for object-oriented programming, which can make it difficult to write large and complex programs. It also lacks some of the safety features that modern programming languages have, such as garbage collection and type checking, which can lead to bugs and security vulnerabilities.

Overall, C is a powerful and versatile language that is well-suited for game development. Its efficiency, flexibility, and compatibility make it a popular choice among game engine developers.

Advantages of Using C in Game Engines

Portability and Compatibility

One of the main advantages of using C in game engines is its portability and compatibility with different platforms. C is a cross-platform language, meaning that it can be compiled and run on various operating systems, including Windows, Linux, and macOS. This allows game developers to create games that can run on multiple platforms without having to rewrite the code for each one.

Speed and Performance

C is a fast and efficient programming language, making it an ideal choice for game engines that require high-performance capabilities. Game engines need to be able to handle complex graphics, physics simulations, and real-time rendering, all of which require a lot of processing power. C’s ability to execute code quickly and efficiently makes it well-suited for these types of applications.

Simplicity and Clarity

C is a relatively simple and straightforward language, which makes it easy for developers to learn and use. Its clarity and simplicity make it a good choice for beginners and experienced programmers alike. C’s syntax is concise and easy to understand, which allows developers to write code more quickly and efficiently.

Wide Range of Libraries and Resources

C has a wide range of libraries and resources available, which makes it easy for developers to access the tools they need to build game engines. Many game engines, such as Unity and Unreal Engine, are built using C and offer a variety of tools and resources for developers to use. Additionally, C’s open-source nature means that developers can access a large community of programmers who can provide support and guidance.

Low Memory Footprint

C has a low memory footprint, which means that it requires less memory to run than other programming languages. This is important for game engines, which often require a lot of memory to handle complex graphics and simulations. By using C, game developers can create engines that are more efficient and use less memory, which can lead to better performance and smoother gameplay.

Examples of C in Game Engines

When it comes to game engines, C is a programming language that is commonly used. It is a high-level language that is known for its efficiency and simplicity, making it a popular choice for game developers. Some examples of C being used in game engines include:

Unreal Engine

Unreal Engine is a popular game engine developed by Epic Games. It is used to create a wide range of games, from first-person shooters to racing games. The engine is written in C and uses a C-based scripting language called Blueprints.

CryEngine

CryEngine is another popular game engine developed by Crytek. It is used to create first-person shooters, racing games, and other types of games. The engine is written in C and uses a C-based scripting language called C++.

id Tech

id Tech is a game engine developed by id Software. It is used to create first-person shooters, such as Doom and Quake. The engine is written in C and uses a C-based scripting language called C++.

These are just a few examples of game engines that use C as a primary programming language. The use of C in game engines allows for efficient and effective code, making it easier for developers to create high-quality games.

C++ Programming Language in Game Engines

Overview of C++ in Game Development

C++ is a powerful, high-performance programming language that has been widely used in game development since the early 1990s. It is an extension of the C programming language and offers several advantages over its predecessor, including improved memory management, increased performance, and enhanced functionality.

One of the key advantages of C++ is its ability to provide low-level access to hardware resources, which is essential for developing high-performance games. This feature allows game developers to optimize their code for specific hardware configurations, resulting in faster frame rates and smoother gameplay.

C++ also offers a wide range of libraries and frameworks that can be used to simplify game development, such as the popular Unity engine and the Unreal Engine. These tools provide developers with a comprehensive set of tools and resources to create complex game environments, character models, and other game assets.

In addition to its technical advantages, C++ is also popular among game developers because of its flexibility and scalability. It can be used to develop both small indie games and large AAA titles, and its modular design allows developers to create reusable code that can be easily integrated into other projects.

Overall, C++ is a versatile and powerful programming language that is well-suited to the demands of game development. Its low-level access to hardware resources, wide range of libraries and frameworks, and flexibility make it an ideal choice for developing complex and high-performance games.

Advantages of Using C++ in Game Engines

One of the most popular programming languages used in game engines is C++. It has become a go-to language for game developers due to its numerous advantages.

• Memory Management: C++ offers developers the ability to directly manipulate memory, which is essential for optimizing performance in complex games. This allows for faster data access and reduced memory usage, resulting in smoother gameplay.
• High-Performance: C++ is known for its high-performance capabilities. It provides low-level access to hardware, which enables developers to optimize their code for maximum efficiency. This is crucial in game engines where speed and responsiveness are critical factors.
• Object-Oriented Programming: C++ supports object-oriented programming, which makes it easier to design and maintain complex systems. This helps developers organize their code into reusable components, leading to more efficient development processes.
• Extension of C: C++ is an extension of the C programming language, which means that developers who are already familiar with C can easily transition to C++. This reduces the learning curve for new developers and makes it easier for teams to collaborate.
• Wide Industry Support: C++ has been a staple in the game development industry for decades. As a result, there is a wealth of resources, libraries, and tools available for developers. This makes it easier for teams to access the support they need to create cutting-edge games.
• Compatibility with Other Languages: C++ can be used in conjunction with other programming languages, such as Python or Lua. This allows developers to use the strengths of multiple languages in their projects, further enhancing the capabilities of their game engines.

In conclusion, C++ offers game engine developers numerous advantages, including memory management, high-performance capabilities, object-oriented programming, compatibility with other languages, and industry support. These advantages make C++ a popular choice for developing complex game engines.

Examples of C++ in Game Engines

Unreal Engine is a popular game engine developed by Epic Games that uses C++ as its primary programming language. It is used to create high-performance games and simulations, and it has been used to develop many popular games, including Fortnite, Gears of War, and Unreal Tournament.

Unity

Unity is another popular game engine that uses C# as its primary programming language. However, C++ can also be used in Unity to create high-performance code for certain aspects of the game, such as physics and graphics. Many developers choose to use C++ in conjunction with C# to optimize their games and create more efficient code.

CryEngine is a game engine developed by Crytek that uses C++ as its primary programming language. It is known for its advanced graphics and physics engine, and it has been used to develop games such as Crysis and Ryse: Son of Rome.

id Tech is a game engine developed by id Software that uses C++ as its primary programming language. It has been used to develop classic games such as Doom, Quake, and Wolfenstein, and it is known for its high-performance code and efficient use of resources.

Source Engine

Source Engine is a game engine developed by Valve Corporation that uses C++ as its primary programming language. It has been used to develop popular games such as Half-Life, Team Fortress, and Left 4 Dead. The Source Engine is known for its advanced physics and AI systems, as well as its modding community.

Overall, C++ is a widely used programming language in game engines due to its performance, flexibility, and low-level access to hardware resources. Its use in game engines allows developers to create high-quality, immersive games with complex graphics and physics.

Comparison of C and C++ in Game Engines

Syntax and Structure

C and C++ are two of the most commonly used programming languages in game engines. While they share many similarities, there are also some significant differences in their syntax and structure.

Similarities

Both C and C++ are procedural programming languages that use a similar syntax and structure. They both use a combination of data types, variables, functions, and control structures to create programs.

C++ also retains much of the syntax and structure of C, making it easier for programmers familiar with C to learn C++.

Differences

C++ introduces several new features that make it more powerful and flexible than C. Some of these features include:

• Object-oriented programming (OOP)
• Pointers and references
• Exception handling
• Templates

These features make C++ a more powerful language for building complex programs, including game engines.

Syntax

The syntax of C++ is similar to C, but with some additional features. C++ adds support for classes, templates, and exception handling, which makes it more powerful than C.

One of the main differences between C and C++ is the use of classes. In C++, classes are used to create objects that can be manipulated and controlled by the program. This allows for a more organized and structured approach to programming, which is especially useful in large game engines.

C++ also adds support for templates, which allow for generic programming. This means that a single function or class can be used with different data types, making it more flexible and reusable.

Another significant difference between C and C++ is the use of exception handling. In C++, exceptions are used to handle errors and exceptions that may occur during program execution. This makes it easier to write robust and reliable code, which is crucial in game engines.

Structure

The structure of C++ is also different from C. In C++, code is organized into classes and objects, which provides a more organized and modular approach to programming. This makes it easier to manage large codebases and maintain a consistent code style.

In addition, C++ introduces the concept of inheritance, which allows for code reuse and a more hierarchical approach to programming. This makes it easier to create complex systems and game mechanics in game engines.

Overall, while C and C++ share many similarities, C++ is the preferred language for game engines due to its object-oriented programming features, support for templates, and exception handling. These features make it easier to write complex and robust code, which is essential for building modern game engines.

Memory Management

When it comes to memory management, both C and C++ have their own strengths and weaknesses. C is a procedural programming language that is commonly used for system programming and is known for its low-level memory access. On the other hand, C++ is an object-oriented programming language that builds upon C and adds features such as classes, inheritance, and polymorphism.

One of the main advantages of C is its ability to directly manipulate memory at a low level. This makes it easier to optimize performance by allocating and deallocating memory as needed. However, this also means that C has no built-in memory management features, such as garbage collection, which can make it more difficult to write and maintain large codebases.

C++ introduces a higher level of abstraction than C by providing memory management features such as dynamic memory allocation and garbage collection. However, these features come at a cost of performance, as they can introduce overhead and reduce the speed of the program. Additionally, C++ also allows for manual memory management through pointers, which can lead to errors such as memory leaks and buffer overflows if not used correctly.

In conclusion, both C and C++ have their own advantages and disadvantages when it comes to memory management in game engines. The choice of language ultimately depends on the specific needs and requirements of the project.

Performance and Efficiency

When it comes to developing game engines, performance and efficiency are critical factors to consider. Both C and C++ are popular programming languages used in game engines, but which one is better for achieving high performance and efficiency?

C

C is a procedural programming language that is known for its simplicity and efficiency. It has been used in game engines for decades and is still widely used today. One of the reasons why C is popular in game engines is because it provides low-level access to hardware resources, which allows developers to optimize their code for maximum performance. Additionally, C is a compiled language, which means that it can be translated into machine code that runs directly on the computer’s CPU, resulting in faster execution times.

C++

C++ is an object-oriented programming language that builds upon the foundation of C. It provides a higher level of abstraction than C, which makes it easier to write and maintain code. C++ also offers features such as classes, inheritance, and polymorphism, which can help developers organize their code and make it more modular. Furthermore, C++ compilers often provide more optimizations than C compilers, which can result in better performance.

Comparison

When it comes to performance and efficiency, both C and C++ have their strengths and weaknesses. C provides low-level access to hardware resources, which can be beneficial for optimizing performance in certain situations. However, C’s lack of object-oriented features can make it more difficult to write and maintain code, especially for larger projects.

On the other hand, C++ offers a higher level of abstraction and more modular code organization, which can make it easier to develop and maintain large game engines. Additionally, C++ compilers often provide more optimizations than C compilers, which can result in better performance.

However, it’s worth noting that the performance difference between C and C++ is often negligible in practice. Many modern game engines use high-level languages such as Python or Lua for scripting, which can be faster and more efficient than C or C++ for certain tasks.

In conclusion, both C and C++ have their advantages and disadvantages when it comes to performance and efficiency in game engines. Developers should choose the language that best fits their needs and preferences, taking into account factors such as code organization, performance optimization, and ease of use.

Support for Game Development Features

When it comes to supporting game development features, both C and C++ have their own advantages and disadvantages.

Memory Management

C is a procedural programming language that provides low-level access to memory, making it easier to manage memory manually. This is particularly useful for game engines that require efficient memory usage and fast performance. However, manual memory management can also lead to errors such as memory leaks and buffer overflows, which can be difficult to detect and fix.

C++, on the other hand, is an object-oriented programming language that provides automatic memory management through its garbage collector. This makes it easier to manage memory and reduces the risk of memory-related errors. However, automatic memory management can also result in slower performance and increased memory usage.

Performance

In terms of performance, C is generally faster than C++ due to its lower-level access to memory and fewer built-in features. This makes it a popular choice for game engines that require high-performance and real-time rendering. However, C’s lack of built-in features can make it more difficult to write complex code, which can lead to longer development times.

C++ is a more complex language than C, with a wider range of built-in features and support for object-oriented programming. This makes it easier to write complex code and manage large codebases, but can also result in slower performance and increased memory usage.

Portability

Both C and C++ are portable programming languages, meaning that they can be used on a variety of platforms and operating systems. However, C++’s support for object-oriented programming and its larger feature set make it more suited for developing complex, platform-specific applications.

In conclusion, both C and C++ have their own strengths and weaknesses when it comes to supporting game development features. Developers must carefully consider their project’s specific needs and requirements when choosing which language to use.

Implications for Game Developers

C and C++ are two programming languages commonly used in game engines. Both languages have their own strengths and weaknesses, and the choice of which one to use can have a significant impact on the development process.

• C++: C++ is an object-oriented programming language that was developed by Bjarne Stroustrup as an extension of the C programming language. It is known for its high performance, memory management, and flexibility. C++ provides game developers with the ability to write efficient code and manipulate memory directly, which is crucial for creating high-performance games.
• C: C is a procedural programming language that was developed by Dennis Ritchie at Bell Labs. It is known for its simplicity, portability, and efficiency. C provides game developers with a low-level, bare-metal programming experience, which allows for greater control over hardware resources and the ability to write highly optimized code.

The choice between C and C++ depends on the specific needs of the game engine and the development team. C++ is typically preferred for high-performance game engines, while C is often used for more resource-constrained platforms such as mobile devices.

Game developers need to consider several factors when choosing a programming language, including:

• Performance: The performance of the programming language is a critical factor in game development. C++ and C both have different levels of performance, and the choice of language can have a significant impact on the overall performance of the game engine.
• Memory Management: Memory management is a crucial aspect of game development, as games require large amounts of memory to store game data, textures, and other assets. C++ and C have different approaches to memory management, and the choice of language can impact the efficiency and stability of the game engine.
• Portability: Portability is an important consideration for game developers, as games need to be compatible with a wide range of platforms and devices. C and C++ have different levels of portability, and the choice of language can impact the ability to deploy the game engine across different platforms.
• Developer Experience: The experience of the development team is also an important factor in the choice of programming language. C++ and C have different learning curves, and the choice of language can impact the productivity and efficiency of the development team.

In conclusion, the choice between C and C++ for game engines depends on the specific needs of the game engine and the development team. Both languages have their own strengths and weaknesses, and game developers need to carefully consider the performance, memory management, portability, and developer experience when making this choice.

Future Developments in Game Engine Programming Languages

The choice between C and C++ for game engine programming has been a subject of much debate. While both languages have their advantages and disadvantages, it is important to consider the future developments in game engine programming languages.

Object-Oriented Programming

One of the most significant developments in game engine programming languages is the increased emphasis on object-oriented programming (OOP). OOP allows developers to create reusable code and modular systems, making it easier to maintain and update game engines. As a result, many game engine developers are turning to C++ for its support of OOP, as it offers more advanced features for object-oriented programming than C.

Performance Optimization

Another important development in game engine programming languages is the need for performance optimization. As game engines become more complex and require more processing power, the need for efficient code becomes increasingly important. C++ offers several advantages in this regard, including its low-level memory management and the ability to directly manipulate hardware resources. This makes it well-suited for performance-critical applications like game engines.

Concurrency and Parallelism

Concurrency and parallelism are also becoming increasingly important in game engine programming. As game engines continue to grow in complexity, developers need to find ways to optimize performance by distributing workloads across multiple cores and processing units. C++ offers several features that make it well-suited for concurrent and parallel programming, including its support for threading and the ability to directly manipulate hardware resources.

Multi-Platform Support

Finally, the need for multi-platform support is another important development in game engine programming languages. As game engines become more ubiquitous, developers need to ensure that their engines can run on a wide range of platforms, from mobile devices to high-end gaming PCs. While both C and C++ can be used for multi-platform development, C++ offers more flexibility and performance optimizations, making it a popular choice for game engine developers.

Overall, the future of game engine programming languages looks bright, with a focus on object-oriented programming, performance optimization, concurrency and parallelism, and multi-platform support. While both C and C++ have their advantages and disadvantages, C++’s support for these developments makes it a popular choice for game engine developers.

FAQs

1. What programming languages are commonly used in game engines?

C and C++ are the most commonly used programming languages in game engines. C is a procedural programming language that is commonly used for system-level programming, while C++ is an object-oriented programming language that is used for both system-level and application-level programming.

2. Is C or C++ better for game engines?

Both C and C++ have their own advantages and disadvantages when it comes to game engines. C is a more basic language and is easier to learn, making it a good choice for system-level programming. C++ is more complex and has more features, making it a better choice for application-level programming. Ultimately, the choice between C and C++ will depend on the specific needs of the game engine.

3. Why are game engines often written in C or C++?

Game engines are often written in C or C++ because these languages offer a high level of control over the hardware and can provide the performance that is necessary for high-quality graphics and realistic physics. Additionally, C and C++ are widely used in the gaming industry, which makes it easier for developers to share code and collaborate on projects.

4. Are there any other programming languages used in game engines?

Other programming languages that are used in game engines include Java, Python, and C#. However, C and C++ are still the most popular choices due to their performance and low-level access to hardware.

5. Is it necessary to know both C and C++ to work on game engines?

It can be helpful to know both C and C++ if you want to work on game engines, as many game engines use both languages. However, it is not always necessary to know both languages, as some game engines only use one language or the other. Ultimately, the specific requirements of the game engine will determine the programming languages that are needed.

C vs C++ vs C