Where do I Start?!
Hello, I am VERY NEW to the programming field. I want to do game developement and so forth as a career but am not sure where to start. I am not sure if I have to learn html and css and so forth. I know I have to learn C++ but not sure what other languages I have to learn. Also if someone could possibly give me a list of programs I should download to use for programming. I want to make and test games such as COD4 to World of Warcraft, someone please let me know where to start, any magazines that give info on developement, and maybe how to get involved in testing. Thank you very much, im sorry if this is the wrong forum to post in.
I don't know much, but I'm planning to do the same thing. Do you plan on going to college? You will most likely need some credentials to get a job.
To start (and maybe determine if the programming thing is for you or not), download Dev-C++ and start learning the basics.
http://www.bloodshed.net/dev/devcpp.html
http://www.cplusplus.com/doc/tutorial/
http://newdata.box.sk/bx/c/index.htm
Game testing is probably not what you want to do as your career.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Game_testing
- Wikipedia
I believe many people in college and planning to go into the game industry find internships as game testers to have a foot in the door for when they graduate.
As for learning C++ and stuff, like me, you'll probably hit a point where the stuff no longer comes so easily and requires much more effort to learn and absorb the stuff. Unless you're up for it, it may become discouraging.
If you get stuck on something on the tutorial, and cannot figure it out yourself, feel free to ask and someone will most likely be able to help you. Most people on here are more skilled in C++ than myself so you'll usually get an answer.
Curious, what grade are you in? I'll be a senior this year.
To start (and maybe determine if the programming thing is for you or not), download Dev-C++ and start learning the basics.
http://www.bloodshed.net/dev/devcpp.html
http://www.cplusplus.com/doc/tutorial/
http://newdata.box.sk/bx/c/index.htm
Game testing is probably not what you want to do as your career.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Game_testing
| A tester may be required to play the same portion of a game repeatedly for hours at a time. Understandably, burn-out is common in this field. |
I believe many people in college and planning to go into the game industry find internships as game testers to have a foot in the door for when they graduate.
As for learning C++ and stuff, like me, you'll probably hit a point where the stuff no longer comes so easily and requires much more effort to learn and absorb the stuff. Unless you're up for it, it may become discouraging.
If you get stuck on something on the tutorial, and cannot figure it out yourself, feel free to ask and someone will most likely be able to help you. Most people on here are more skilled in C++ than myself so you'll usually get an answer.
Curious, what grade are you in? I'll be a senior this year.
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In addition to C++, learn some assembly language. You can have the best of both worlds by using C++ inline assembly.
Wonderful tutorials at http://download.savannah.gnu.org/releases/pgubook/
And please google for video game programming for pinpointing the start off area that will interest you.
Wonderful tutorials at http://download.savannah.gnu.org/releases/pgubook/
And please google for video game programming for pinpointing the start off area that will interest you.
To be honest I actually dropped out and am getting GED, Its not that I am unintelligent, or a trouble maker...I got straight A's in private school however I got very distracted in public and ended up failing at it. Although I basically have a complete highschool eduaction. I should be entering college withing a year. Although I would like to have some experience I learned on my own rather than jumping into something I've never tried to do before. Your right I do not want to test as a career, but it would be something interesting to try out before making them. What would be smarter by the way, getting a tutorial from borders ect. or learning c++ from the tutorials online. Like I said also is there any of specific languages I should be learning to game developement, such as css or html. Thank you. I will keep you posted on how I am doing at it.
kryptix,
First off, game development is driven by passion so don't stress about the GED or credentials. There are countless game developers that did not even attend college that are now some of the best out there. If you are looking for a quick fix to get your foot in the door, consider seeking out a job as a QA tester, but be warned... there is nothing glamorous about it and the pay is horrible, however you will get the opportunity to learn how thigns work. Also be ready to compete with the other tens of thousands of people trying to get into the industry. The down side to game development is that the companies are typically centralized in a hand full of areas so you may need to relocate to get the position desired.
There are 3 main professions that you may find of interest. I have listed some skills that will be required of you as well:
Game Developer
Game Designer
Game Tester
Technical Skills:
- Game Concepts & Dynamics
- Artificial Intelligence
- Storyboarding
- Intermediate knowledge of C++. Mastery is great, but probably unrealistic. Most games are developed in C++ today.
- Java is another option, but the real powerhouse multi million dollar games are in c++
- OpenGL & Directx - Some familiarity is a must
- Intermediate - Advanced Mathematics
- Development Methodology (Agile, etc...)
- Some exposure to graphics applications would be beneficial (Maya, 3dMax, Photoshop, etc...)
- Object Oriented Programming/Design Principles
Now for the Soft Skills:
- Patience
- Great Team Player - Learn from others and work together.
- Willing to work insane hours, no gaming degree is a 9-5 job.
- Positive personality. Sometimes your project might not be the type of game you enjoy playing. Use it as an opportunity to learn something new.
- Most importantly... passion. You need to love what you do.
HTML and CSS are nice to know, but not really expected or sought out. The best advice I can give is to consume yourself in learning and this is a great place to start. Learn as much C++ as possible, that's the key to understanding the guts of a game. If possible, go to a college that teaches Game Programming and Simulation, there are a handful out there with good reps. Read everything you can get your hands on. If you are unable to attend college, I would start with this:
1. Grab yourself an Introduction to C++ book, if you're new to programming get yourself an introduction on computer programming concepts as well. Study the book front to back and ask questions when you get stumped. Much of the process of learning C++ can be boring if you are looking to make games so be patient and know that it's not time wasted. DO NOT proceed to new concepts until you are absolutely confident you understand the logic because for starters you won't be making any graphical applications, just simple text. Challenge yourself as much as possible and make your own programs to find new ways of doing things. One of the things employers look for over education is accomplishments, proven application of knowledge. Develop a portfolio when you're ready.
2. Learn about game dynamics, how the games work and are structured. Pick up a book, there are some good ones out there.
3. Once you have an intermediate understanding of C++, start looking into OpenGL and take a look at some other libraries out there such as BOOST and Ogre.
4. Learn about the game design process. If you are new to software development in general you need to understand how each team member interacts with each other.
These are the basics. I know its overwhelming but achieving these will get you to a good start. Consider purchasing a subscription to Game Developer's Magazine and frequent gaming sites such as gamasutra.com.
I'll end my rantings here.
return 0;
First off, game development is driven by passion so don't stress about the GED or credentials. There are countless game developers that did not even attend college that are now some of the best out there. If you are looking for a quick fix to get your foot in the door, consider seeking out a job as a QA tester, but be warned... there is nothing glamorous about it and the pay is horrible, however you will get the opportunity to learn how thigns work. Also be ready to compete with the other tens of thousands of people trying to get into the industry. The down side to game development is that the companies are typically centralized in a hand full of areas so you may need to relocate to get the position desired.
There are 3 main professions that you may find of interest. I have listed some skills that will be required of you as well:
Game Developer
Game Designer
Game Tester
Technical Skills:
- Game Concepts & Dynamics
- Artificial Intelligence
- Storyboarding
- Intermediate knowledge of C++. Mastery is great, but probably unrealistic. Most games are developed in C++ today.
- Java is another option, but the real powerhouse multi million dollar games are in c++
- OpenGL & Directx - Some familiarity is a must
- Intermediate - Advanced Mathematics
- Development Methodology (Agile, etc...)
- Some exposure to graphics applications would be beneficial (Maya, 3dMax, Photoshop, etc...)
- Object Oriented Programming/Design Principles
Now for the Soft Skills:
- Patience
- Great Team Player - Learn from others and work together.
- Willing to work insane hours, no gaming degree is a 9-5 job.
- Positive personality. Sometimes your project might not be the type of game you enjoy playing. Use it as an opportunity to learn something new.
- Most importantly... passion. You need to love what you do.
HTML and CSS are nice to know, but not really expected or sought out. The best advice I can give is to consume yourself in learning and this is a great place to start. Learn as much C++ as possible, that's the key to understanding the guts of a game. If possible, go to a college that teaches Game Programming and Simulation, there are a handful out there with good reps. Read everything you can get your hands on. If you are unable to attend college, I would start with this:
1. Grab yourself an Introduction to C++ book, if you're new to programming get yourself an introduction on computer programming concepts as well. Study the book front to back and ask questions when you get stumped. Much of the process of learning C++ can be boring if you are looking to make games so be patient and know that it's not time wasted. DO NOT proceed to new concepts until you are absolutely confident you understand the logic because for starters you won't be making any graphical applications, just simple text. Challenge yourself as much as possible and make your own programs to find new ways of doing things. One of the things employers look for over education is accomplishments, proven application of knowledge. Develop a portfolio when you're ready.
2. Learn about game dynamics, how the games work and are structured. Pick up a book, there are some good ones out there.
3. Once you have an intermediate understanding of C++, start looking into OpenGL and take a look at some other libraries out there such as BOOST and Ogre.
4. Learn about the game design process. If you are new to software development in general you need to understand how each team member interacts with each other.
These are the basics. I know its overwhelming but achieving these will get you to a good start. Consider purchasing a subscription to Game Developer's Magazine and frequent gaming sites such as gamasutra.com.
I'll end my rantings here.
return 0;
I forgot about this. I found it interesting. Check it out.
http://youtube.com/watch?v=dBmiLQhT33A
Also, I wouldn't go crazy buying books, I take them out from the library for free =P
http://youtube.com/watch?v=dBmiLQhT33A
Also, I wouldn't go crazy buying books, I take them out from the library for free =P
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@return0;
While this WAS true. Because the gaming industry was in it's infancy and alot of the top developers are founders of game companies this isn't so much the case anymore. The game industry has matured quite a bit and now you shouldn't even expect a look-in unless you have a BSC or Game-Dev Degree.
For every game dev job listed, there are 1000+ people who want to be a Game-Dev. It's a VERY cut-throat industry. Almost the celebrity of software development.
First off, game development is driven by passion so don't stress about the GED or credentials. There are countless game developers that did not even attend college that are now some of the best out there. |
While this WAS true. Because the gaming industry was in it's infancy and alot of the top developers are founders of game companies this isn't so much the case anymore. The game industry has matured quite a bit and now you shouldn't even expect a look-in unless you have a BSC or Game-Dev Degree.
For every game dev job listed, there are 1000+ people who want to be a Game-Dev. It's a VERY cut-throat industry. Almost the celebrity of software development.
@Zaita,
Yes things have changed a bit, however a degree without a portfolio of games will still get you no where. That's why I emphasize passion. In order to break into the industry you need to stand out above the rest, which as you pointed out, is in the thousands. I agree with you that a BSC or Game Dev degree is a step in the right direction.
Take a look at the most recent game developer's career guide: http://gamedeveloper.texterity.com/gamedeveloper/2008careerguide/
The study indicates that the industry is not as difficult as everyone thinks to get into. The other option is to just start your own game company :D
return 0;
Yes things have changed a bit, however a degree without a portfolio of games will still get you no where. That's why I emphasize passion. In order to break into the industry you need to stand out above the rest, which as you pointed out, is in the thousands. I agree with you that a BSC or Game Dev degree is a step in the right direction.
Take a look at the most recent game developer's career guide: http://gamedeveloper.texterity.com/gamedeveloper/2008careerguide/
The study indicates that the industry is not as difficult as everyone thinks to get into. The other option is to just start your own game company :D
return 0;
@Return 0;
Starting your own company requires ALOT of capital unfortunately. It's something like $700,000USD to license the CryTek engine for use in a game. $900k USD for Unreal Engine. Then you've gotta create assests, sounds etc.
To be a good game developer, you must be an excellent C++ programmer. Being mediocre is not going to be good enough :)
Starting your own company requires ALOT of capital unfortunately. It's something like $700,000USD to license the CryTek engine for use in a game. $900k USD for Unreal Engine. Then you've gotta create assests, sounds etc.
To be a good game developer, you must be an excellent C++ programmer. Being mediocre is not going to be good enough :)
@ Zaita,
That's not accurate, you don't need mass funding to start up unless you expect to release a multimillion dollar game. I'm talking small time to generate revenue, that's how most of the new companies get started, there are no loans and few VCs that will fund new Game companies. I'm in the process of forming my own and I won't be incorporating for another 2 years as per my plan. Funding is only provided from a finished product. Look at companies like Jagex that developed runescape and have 100s of thousands of accounts at like 5 bucks a month, translates to millions. No hi def game engine there just some simple coding, assets and crapy sound effects. The only huge overhead might be server power for rendering, but that wouldn't be an issue with their graphics. I've invested around $600.00 so far and I have every industry leading app at my hands both Maya, Photoshop, 3dMax, etc... Time is the problem, not necessarily funding. It takes a loooonnng time for 3 people to develop a grade C or B game.
return 0;
How about that, after typing this I went to runescape.com, they generated enough revenue to revamp their entire game...
That's not accurate, you don't need mass funding to start up unless you expect to release a multimillion dollar game. I'm talking small time to generate revenue, that's how most of the new companies get started, there are no loans and few VCs that will fund new Game companies. I'm in the process of forming my own and I won't be incorporating for another 2 years as per my plan. Funding is only provided from a finished product. Look at companies like Jagex that developed runescape and have 100s of thousands of accounts at like 5 bucks a month, translates to millions. No hi def game engine there just some simple coding, assets and crapy sound effects. The only huge overhead might be server power for rendering, but that wouldn't be an issue with their graphics. I've invested around $600.00 so far and I have every industry leading app at my hands both Maya, Photoshop, 3dMax, etc... Time is the problem, not necessarily funding. It takes a loooonnng time for 3 people to develop a grade C or B game.
return 0;
How about that, after typing this I went to runescape.com, they generated enough revenue to revamp their entire game...
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Hi this is my first day visiting this website and forums. I'm a beginner looking into what school to attend to get a bachelor's in game and simulation. I have to agree with Return 0 on the whole how much you need to make your initial entrance into things. I've read that time is the big killer and small teams obviously have that against them. And I'm guessing if you're not skilled then you're gonna be wasting even more time looking for answers to your questions. I know the whole capital deal Zaita is talking about is untrue. Who said anything about investing in a top-of-the-line 3d engine on your first crack? To me that's a gross waste of money. at www.devmaster.net you can find a bunch of information pertaining to game developing and stuff. I don't know it's where I'm coming from. Anyways, there are 3d engines out there that are being updated, are open source (meaning you can see the code for yourself), and are under free licensing, some even free to use and can make a commercial product out of it! Obviously I doubt most of these can do the things the a big huge ultra friggin Unreal Engine can do (come on now) but unless your daddy's a billionaire you should probably start with as close to free as possible. Devmaster is a big database of 3d engines and it evaluates and compares them, has reviews, and links to the websites so if you find one u think u like then the adventure is just beginning. Return 0, you seem like someone who likes to help us noobs and maybe can help me in time answer some basic questions you might initially role your eyes at. Hope to hear back, later.
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