C++ game programming help?

Question

OK im pretty new to c++ but im using a book (C++ for dummies lol). My main goal is to make rpgs and, wel any type of game that im feeling like programming. Im planning on going the Directx route with another book I have (Programing RPGs with directx). I want to know if im going the right route in how im learning all this. I know it sounds a little OCD but I really wanna make games. Im afraid im gonna learn c++ then learn directx, and then find no way of putting them together. Hopefully the books will teach that but please offer any advice or suggesions. (BTW though I will do a lot of 3D games, i will mostly make classic 2d rpgs)

Answer 1

start off with visual c++ and do text based games (rpg, adventure, strategy, etc) written as pure console games (nothing GUI based). After you get a good grip of c++, start learning how to program using DirectX. Using DirectX, keep making text based games, but that now feature graphics, scrolling text, etc. After you get more experienced using DirectX and C++, start making games like said above, pong, and other games that have very few moving objects and sprites (graphics). After you get the hang of using sprites and such, move on to bigger and bigger projects. Remember, that these first few weeks and months will have you taking baby steps, but you will soon see a whole new area of productivity open up to you.

Answer 2

Learn C++, learn DirectX. Don't expect to make anything decent though, start with Tic-Tac-Toe, Ping Pong, Snake, Tron - the baby stuff. After that, keep increasing the level of difficulty.

Answer 3

For now, forget about DirectX. Remember, RPGs used to come in TEXT form. It's the gameplay, not the graphics, that's important (at least, tell yourself that).

Answer 4

The above answerer is right, of course, and it would help to figure out what you really enjoy about game development -- if its graphics, the link below will get into the Game SDK for Microsoft Visual C++ Express.