Custom Physics Code vs PhysX

Developers should learn custom physics code when building applications requiring precise control over physical simulations, such as in specialized games with unique mechanics, scientific research tools, or performance-critical systems where generic engines introduce overhead meets developers should learn physx when working on games or simulations that require advanced physics effects, such as destructible environments, realistic character movements, or dynamic object interactions, as it provides optimized performance on nvidia gpus. Here's our take.

Custom Physics Code

Nice Pick

Developers should learn custom physics code when building applications requiring precise control over physical simulations, such as in specialized games with unique mechanics, scientific research tools, or performance-critical systems where generic engines introduce overhead

Pros

• It is essential for creating realistic simulations in fields like robotics, aerospace, or medical imaging, and for achieving artistic effects in animation or interactive art that standard physics libraries cannot easily replicate
• Related to: numerical-methods, game-physics

Cons

• Specific tradeoffs depend on your use case

PhysX

Developers should learn PhysX when working on games or simulations that require advanced physics effects, such as destructible environments, realistic character movements, or dynamic object interactions, as it provides optimized performance on NVIDIA GPUs

Pros

• It is particularly useful in AAA game development, VR/AR projects, and training simulations where physics accuracy and real-time responsiveness are critical, offering hardware acceleration for complex calculations
• Related to: unreal-engine, unity

Cons

• Specific tradeoffs depend on your use case

The Verdict

These tools serve different purposes. Custom Physics Code is a concept while PhysX is a library. We picked Custom Physics Code based on overall popularity, but your choice depends on what you're building.

The Bottom Line

Custom Physics Code wins

Based on overall popularity. Custom Physics Code is more widely used, but PhysX excels in its own space.