Backend-Agnostic C++ Architecture
Overview
Engine Interface is a lightweight C++ architecture project designed to separate application logic from backend-specific implementation details. The framework provides a stable interface layer for rendering, input, timing, audio, and resource systems, allowing different backends such as SFML, DirectX, mock systems, or future rendering APIs to be integrated without rewriting core logic.
The project was developed to explore maintainable software architecture, low-coupling system design, testability, and scalable C++ engineering patterns. Rather than focusing only on game functionality, Engine Interface demonstrates how interface-driven architecture can support reusable, adaptable, and backend-independent software systems.
My Role
I designed and implemented the full architecture, including the interface layer, backend communication patterns, system abstractions, and integration strategy. The project reflects my focus on modern C++ development, clean software design, dependency inversion, and practical engineering principles that can transfer across games, simulation, tooling, and wider STEM software environments.
Key Engineering Features
- Backend-agnostic interface design
- Separation of core logic from platform/library-specific code
- Swappable rendering, input, timing, and audio systems
- Dependency inversion and interface-driven development
- Testable architecture using mock or headless implementations
- Modular structure designed for maintainability and extension
- Reduced coupling between application logic and backend frameworks
Technical Highlights
The engine was designed around reusable C++ interfaces for core engine-level systems, reducing tight coupling between application logic and backend-specific implementations. An abstraction layer isolates external library dependencies, allowing systems such as rendering, input, audio, and testing backends to be replaced or extended without rewriting higher-level code. This structure improves maintainability and supports scalable software engineering patterns, with future extension in mind for backends such as SFML, DirectX, and mock testing systems.
Development Goals
This project demonstrates continued technical development in software engineering after commercial experience in development tools. It shows practical application of C++, systems architecture, technical problem-solving, and maintainable design — skills directly relevant to roles in software engineering, simulation, embedded systems, tooling, defence, robotics, and technical platforms.
Tools and Technologies
C++, Visual Studio, Git, interface design, backend abstraction, dependency inversion, software architecture, modular systems, testable design.