I'm
asking because I don't remember seeing any software or game written in Java,
even though I must admit it is a powerful language.
Powerfull yes, because of it's compatibility and fully object orientated
style so it's easy to use with system design tools / documentation like UML.
Though Java is not really fast. Like someone said before, Java is byte-code
and not machine code due the compatibillity stuff. That makes it 'alot'
slower than programs written in C++, Visual Basic or Delphi for example. I
can know it because I'm writing games for a few years now so speed is really
important then.
But, as the computers grow bigger and bigger Java runs faster of course. So
the usage depends on what you'd like to make. If it's a big program with
advanced graphic-stuff I'd prefer C++ or Delphi. If it works with
applications like MS Access, Word or other Micros$ft products you'd better
use VB. If it needs to run on many platforms or it's close to the web Java
is probably the best choice (although languages can generate cross-platform
programs too, but Java is still far more easier in that).
Greetings,
Rick