8 minutes ago, nrdalrt said:i started working through C++ on CodeCademy.... maybe not the best place to start but i like it so far. I will definitely download and try out the game engines suggested and see what they're all about.
I would suggest giving this book a read for C++: https://www.amazon.ca/Primer-5th-Stanley-B-Lippman/dp/0321714113
Then you'll want to update your knowledge with the current standard.
There also might be something on UDEMY worth a look to help with your language of choice, plus engine.
I personally started a long time ago due to engine and tool-kit development, but when it comes down to what you really want to do. Are you wanting to build games or the foundation to which games are built on? Maybe both? If you just want to make games then I wouldn't devote time in creating the foundation as those wheels are built and spinning just fine in 2019.