3 replies to this topic

[RomTimon]

Hello.

Currently, I am a full-time web designer (or webmaster, whatever), but I want to go in to game development in the future. Right now, I am willing to learn all I can in the free time from my job. So atm, all i know is some PHP/CSS/HTML. Obviously, that has nothing to do with game development. Which is why I am here. From what I understood, C++ is a pretty good solid language for programming anything, but I think I will go with C# to start out, and if necessary, learn the C++ later on (Unless you will explain me a reason why I should not start with C#).

 

I do not want to just know how to program games, but that is my primary objective. So, if there is some kind of a book or course I can take that introduces the reader step by step to programming games with C# (or w/e other language you suggest me), but does not forget to explain the language itself, please give me a link to download/buy. Basically, a C# (or..) tutorial book, which covers the language and teaches how to apply that knowledge to game programming. I am a beginner in such programming, so I need to know the basics too. But I do want to apply that knowledge to game development ASAP.

 

My longterm goal is to participate in creating a great MMORPG. I am completely aware of the fact that I can not make an MMO just from the start. I intend to participate in creating one, but not now. That is my GOAL, not what I am trying to do right now. Right now, I am willing to learn everything necessary for that. I want to build several small games, perhaps a small 3d rpg too, before moving on.

 

I have tried HeroEngine for several weeks about a year ago, to get the idea of what the game consists of. That made me understand the huge amount of work that is necessary to create a good game (and epic amounts of work for an MMORPG). Its for sure not for a beginner, and not for one person. A week ago, I downloaded Unity and learnt the basics of using this game engine, but I quickly understood that I will need to learn to program, before even considering to do something good. So, here I am.

 

So, am I right that I need to spend some time reading C# books and tutorials before going back to the unity3d engine? Or should I just jump in?

 

At this moment, I have the "The C# Programming Language, 4th edition - 2010" Book by Anders Hejlsberg. I think it is one of the best for learning C#, but it has  nothing to do with game development.

 

So, what will you suggest?

 

Thanks!

[0r0d]

I would only say that if your ultimate goal is to become a professional developer, you will need to learn C++.  If that's the case, then rather than starting with C# and then learning C++, I'd recommend starting with C++ and later move to C# if you want.

 

The reason here is that C++ will teach you the low(er) level stuff that will give you a better understanding of what the computer is actually doing, which is important for things like games where performance if often an issue.  Learning C++ and then C# is like building a solid foundation and then your house on top of that.  Going right to C# is like building the house on the ground w/o a foundation.  Sure it might be just fine, until a storm shows up and your house gets washed away.  I have also heard stories of people who learn C# first and then have trouble getting their heads around C++.  Not just that, but learning C++ first means you'll accumulate a longer amount of time on that language, which is important if at some point you need to use it professionally.  There is definitely a lot to master in C++, and stuff like that only becomes second nature if you use it for many years.

 

If, however, you dont really think that you'll use C++ professionally at some point, then C# might be the way to go.  I'd consider what platforms you want to develop for and what tools you'll be using.  C++ has the advantage here that it will allow you to put your game almost everywhere without relying on third-party platforms or toolchains.

[RomTimon]

Thanks for your opinion, I will start considering C++ then. Any good books fitting under

"I do not want to just know how to program games, but that is my primary objective. So, if there is some kind of a book or course I can take that introduces the reader step by step to programming games with C# (or w/e other language you suggest me), but does not forget to explain the language itself, please give me a link to download/buy. Basically, a C# (or..) tutorial book, which covers the language and teaches how to apply that knowledge to game programming. I am a beginner in such programming, so I need to know the basics too. But I do want to apply that knowledge to game development ASAP."

for C++?

 

I am going to develop for Windows. Perhaps a few small projects for Windows Phone 8, but nothing serious.

 

I prefer to get a good solid foundation, so C++ seems the way to go, but I would be very frustrated by the lack of achievement, if there is nothing I can apply my knowledge to...

[RomTimon]

why does everyone suggest C# btw.

for example here: http://www.gamedev.net/topic/642527-what-programming-language-should-i-go-with-cc-or-java/