9 replies to this topic

[ISDCaptain01]

So I started learning programming seriously in march 2012. When I started I didnt know much at all. Just knew how to do some basic I/O console programs. Note that im just an hobbyist. I spend an hour everyday learning programming.

-Basic C++ (classes, objects, vectors, strings, how to seperate header/implementation, inheritance, vrtual function,
basic composition, etc etc.)

-Learned programming terminology:Know what an api, library, .net, IDE, Know what other languages do.

-Know my way around visual c++ 2010

-Have a basic idea on how to link api/libraries

-dabbled in bit of SDL and DirectX.

Currently:Im working my way through data structures for game programmers book.

Future plans:

Learning SDL and then directx

messing around with computer architecture by reading The Black Art of Video Game Console Design.

making simple games like breakout, pacman, mario etc etc.

Main question: Am I making reasonable progress?

[rdragon1]

Everyone's pace is different, just keep going.

[ISDCaptain01]

yeah I know, but I try not to rush myself, then again i dont want to feel like im going too slow either.
Then the dilemma comes telling me that this isnt my job/living, take it easy. Then the passion kicks in and says "NO, WORK MORE"

Edited by ISDCaptain01, 23 October 2012 - 12:55 AM.

[jbadams]

You're doing fine.

[Zanion]

Your continued dedication to the craft speaks for itself. You have been making consistent progress since spring and are well on your way. In my personal endeavors I try to focus on the regularity and depth with which I am learning and not the quantity. After all, the knowledge you retain by working steadily is far more valuable than the shallow knowledge you will gain by attempting to cram it all into your head at once or moving too quickly. Just make sure to keep pushing forward and introducing new or unique approaches with each new project and before long the question of acceptable progress will become obsolete. There isn't a programmer alive worth their mettle who isn't trying to increase their understanding and knowledge base, they just happen to have more time & experience under their belts. Reallocate the time you spend questioning your progress to new (or even old) and unique projects. One of the best learning experiences I had was writing a fully detailed game design document for a simple game then designing, implementing, and refining my project to a complete game. Try not to get caught in the trap of thinking you need to know everything there is to know and begin carefully executing realistic projects to supplement and advance your learning. To me programming isn't about knowing everything it's about knowing how to approach solving problems and using your resources to find the answers you need as you require. You won't do everything right the first time but you'll quickly figure out how and most importantly Ask Questions! Best of luck =D

[J. Evola's Apprentice]

Learn more about algorithms and data structures theory. (Cormen, Skiena, Sedgewick)

[3Ddreamer]

Well, you are thoughtful about your decisions. You have reasonable goals which progress orderly, based on what you wrote at top. Fundamentals seem to be important to you. The variety that comes with building a broad foundational knowledge is obvious. Goals are clear. The simple games that you make are the right choice.

My only suggestion is to find ways of remaining enthusiastic, really enjoying the learning process. A constructive criticism is that if you were really enjoying it then you probably would be less prone to ask how you are doing in game dev in general, since you are learning as a hobbyist. If I were making games as a hobby like you, then I would want to share my experiences with others. Games are social things by nature, so don't aim low instead getting involved in game making circles for the fun of it. Make friends!

Asking how you are doing on technical aspects perhaps implies that you hope for more in your future. If you aspire to eventually make an income in game development, then it is a good idea to subject your coding to critique among your friends. There are some gaming communities where this coding critique is very common and encouraged.

All is food for thought, so take what you may.

Clinton

Edited by 3Ddreamer, 23 October 2012 - 12:51 PM.

[Alpha_ProgDes]

First, I think you're making great progress.

Second, personally if you're trying to make 2D games is your goal, then just learn SDL and/or SFML. Personally, I don't think Direct X is necessary. Though people with more experience with Direct X especially for creating 2D games may disagree.

[superman3275]

Everyone has their own pace. I would say you're making great progress! Just keep on learning. I'm not experienced in DirectX, however I agree with Alpha above. SFML is a good library, however Allegro and SDL have their advantages. I think you should keep on learning. The best way to keep your motivation is to work towards a goal. Do you have a game you want to make? If it's 2d then you can learn SFML or SDL or Allegro or DirectX or OpenGL, really any of them will work. Then just make games! (Or programs if that's not your goal )

[ISDCaptain01]

alright thanks for your guys advice. I just wanted to analyse myself and see if I was doing proper pacing