how to start game programming

When I wanted to develop with Java, I found it very very helpful to download a copy of the JDK and an IDE, then get my imagination going. Aside from that, I learned more java, bought tons of books, read hundreds of on-line articles, and taked to other Java developers.

I've written games in a about a half dozen languages and the biggest asset you can have is a great imagination (that is going without saying you have to have the abstract thought patters to be able to comprehend how to program and design and make it all fit together).

I also found my development improved after I went to school and formally studies software development... (computer science).

Aside from all of that... develop and idea of the game you want to program, do this on paper/wordprocessor: formally outline and document what it is, how it will work, your audiance, charaters, worlds, player interactions etc. Sound too complicated? keep on reading...

Then choose one little piece that you can possibly do first to start to learn how to do it and evolve it from there. In the case of rpg, you may start with a text based game... add network interaction... add a graphics interface to track where you are on a map... add a character that moves on the map... add interaction between graphic character (battles)... add zoom to map... etc...

Start small and evolve... only your imagination will hold you back (well and possibly your artistic abilities).

morgalra at 2007-7-13 10:27:53 >