[CoolerMaster]

Well im currently using a manual to learn C++. I started about a week ago, so Im still just doing some basic stuff. I would like to eventually be able to make graphics, applications, and possibly some games. What other languages do I need to know in order to do those types of things? I've heard that c++ is used in alot of games today.

Well any advice would be appreciated,

CoolerMaster

[Klogg]

Well, you really only need to know one language to do those things. So, since you are already learning C++, you should probably stick with that until you get pretty proficient with it. It's better to know a lot about one language than a tiny bit about a bunch of languages. You'll never get anywhere if you keep switching to another language without learning enough about the one you're on.

[CoolerMaster]

Well what I would like to know is how C++ is used in programs and games and stuff. I've heard that it is a fairly low-level language and that it takes a while to make things. Is there another language that is commonly used with it? I think that my first main objective is learning how to make graphics and then eventually try making some small games or applications. I'm really just trying to get an idea of what one has to do in order to learn how to do these kinds of things. C++ seems like a useful language to know and can probably do all of these things, but is it practical to use c++ to make graphics? I would really just like to have a plan in order to get where i want to go. When i start to get fairly proficient with c++(and i understand that this may take a while), I would like to know what else i need to know in order to make graphics and applications and games.

well i hope that clarified what Im looking for a little better than my previous post.

CoolerMaster

[Klogg]

Well, I don't think I can really help you, then. Sorry. I don't really know a whole lot about C++. I program in Visual Basic. I've gotten into some graphics stuff, and I've even made a game (go to my web site if you want to see it). But sorry, I don't know how to do graphics in C++ or how hard they are to do. Good luck with learning how to program. I hope you can get everything figured out.

[oblivious69]

Originally Posted by CoolerMaster

I think that my first main objective is learning how to make graphics and then eventually try making some small games or applications.

Frankly, I think you should go the other way. Learn how to make simple apps and learn basic programming concepts. Once you've done that, graphics should be easier to learn. You don't want to be swamped and try to cover too much material up front.

What platform are you trying to make games for? If Windows, you need to learn how to deal with the graphics device interface (GDI) and DirectX APIs. Look up windows game programming in amazon for some books.

If you want to make games for Linux, I think you need to learn OpenGL. Thats what Quake for linux used.

Take a look at http://www.gamedev.net. It looks like they would answer some of your questions.

And yes, C++ is the way to go.

[CoolerMaster]

Thanks for the help guys. My manual is teaching me how to do some basic applications and stuff (just started learning about objects and functions yesterday). Ill look into getting a manual on those other languages (i use windows xp so probably GDI and Directx API's)

CoolerMaster

[Dilgerman]

im taking a class at the local community college. i would suggest doing that because unlike a book, a teacher can answer any questions that might arise.

and the credits go towards a computer science degree!