What is a good language/free compiler for a newb to learn to make games?

Question

So I need a free compiler that is compatible with Windows and Mac and is easy to learn(I'm a newb at programming), and it needs to be good for making games(not 3D... yet).

Answer 1

I suggest Flash CS4 ( You need to buy or download free trail at http://www.adobe.com/

There is also another thing called GameMaker (http://www.yoyogames.com/gamemaker)



out of both of those, I suggest Flash Cs4

Answer 2

If you just want to make games, you could go with something visual with a scripting language, such as Flash recommended above.



However, if you want to learn how to _code_ games, I would recommend starting to learn C/C++. Once you understand how the language works, you can take advantage of graphics libraries such as OpenGL, which is cross platform.



The most popular library is Microsoft's DirectX, which is why most of the games today only work on Windows. With OpenGL, you can port your code to Windows, *Nix/BSD, OS X, and even some portable devices like the iPhone.

Answer 3

If you want to learn programming (for games or any other purpose), learn programming - then worry about learning a language. Someone who learns a language without learning programming is like a carpenter who only learns "hammer" - he's not a carpenter, he's just fooling around.



Start at http://www-old.oberon.ethz.ch/WirthPubl/AD.pdf

Answer 4

Flash. Flash. Flash.



CS4 is the latest, and if you've got the money, well worth it. If you don't, well, I can't advise you to do anything illegal...