mademilitia

I apologize if this is then wrong section. First about me, I have a certification in web development and took classes programming HTML, Java, COBOL and AS 400, so I have a tiny bit of programming back ground. I can sort of read code and understand it but I have never actually written anything, unless you count apple BASIC programs. I am a systems guy.

I understand networks and SQL databases and things on that end. My question is where I should start with programming with the intention of developing a game.

Do I start in visual studio with C# or C++ and what is the best super beginner guide you can think of? Or is there a better language for a total beginner?

Is it better to create my own engine or try to find a free engine and code off that?
What is used for level design? (Software and so forth)

My 5 year down the road hopes would be to have a game where you as a toon can run around an open world colleting items using those items to create weapons and other things while avoiding/killing enemies.