I learned Odin

2026-06-04 · Source: ThePrimeagen · Field: Technology & Digital — Software Development & Engineering, Gaming & Interactive Media · Depth: Novice, long

Summary

A developer is rewriting a tower defense game, originally built in Lua with Love 2D, using the Odin programming language. This project serves as a learning vehicle for Odin, which the author finds compelling and well-suited for game development, describing it as "the C alternative for the joy of programming." Key features praised include Odin's vendor importing system, which simplifies integrating libraries like Raylib and Box2D for 2D game creation, its explicit function overloading, and the convenient "using" keyword for structural embedding. The author found Odin easy to pick up within 20-30 hours for those familiar with manual memory management. While AI code generation works with Odin, it still requires significant refactoring. This rewrite is driven by a desire to return to the fundamental joy of coding, contrasting with recent frustrations in the AI programming world.

Key takeaway

For software engineers or game developers considering new languages or seeking renewed coding passion, exploring Odin could be beneficial. Its C-like syntax, explicit features like vendor importing for libraries such as Raylib, and clear function overloading can streamline game development. If you've felt disconnected by complex AI programming trends, focusing on a language designed for "the joy of programming" might reignite your enthusiasm and provide a more direct creative outlet.

Key insights

Rewriting a game in Odin offers a path to rediscover coding joy and explore a C-like language designed for game development.

Principles

• Explicit function overloading improves code clarity.
• Vendor importing streamlines external library integration.
• C-like languages can be quickly adopted.

Method

The article describes rewriting a game by porting existing game logic and data (JSON files) from Lua to Odin, leveraging Odin's features and Raylib for rendering and controls.

In practice

• Use Odin for 2D game development with Raylib.
• Implement explicit function overloading for clarity.
• Explore Odin's "using" keyword for data structures.

Topics

• Odin Programming Language
• Game Development
• Raylib
• Explicit Function Overloading
• Software Rewriting
• Developer Productivity

Best for: Software Engineer

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Editorial summary, takeaway, and curation by AIssential. Original article published by ThePrimeagen.