I am just entering the programming arena and need a little help to get started. I have never programmed before and want to get into game dev, what are the best steps to take to start, web sites, books, other infomation.

First learn a language. Professional game developers usually use C and/or C++. Plan on spending at least a year or so learning the language and becoming familiar with general program design and logic. College is a good place to do this.

Many people in these forums like "Accelerated C++" (I don't know the author) and "The C++ Programming Language" by Stroustrape (creator of C++. A bit technical to learn from, but it's a good book to have). The Dietel & Dietel textbooks are pretty good too.

Web sites? You're on one of the best right now! The forums are full of helpful people and there are tons of great articles. Cplusplus.com is also a great C++ resource, but it's more of a reference site and does assume you know a little about programming in general.

It's a long, hard road, but if you work hard and have patience, it'll be worth it! Good luck!

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[edited by - Chem0sh on June 22, 2002 3:15:07 PM]

[edited by - Chem0sh on June 22, 2002 3:15:36 PM]

1)Learn C++
2)Learn Window Programming
3)Write a few 2d games like tetris or space invaders
4)Learn DirectX or OpenGL
5)Write a 3d game

At least that is my plan.