- PPF Points
- 186
I kept hearing about C++ when I first became interested in programming systems and games. I was initially intimidated by the prospect of learning it because, in contrast to languages like Python, it appeared sophisticated and low-level. However, after I got started, I saw that C++ could be very strong, particularly for creating games or doing system-level programming near the hardware.
My first piece of advice for novices who wish to learn C++ game or system programming is to start small. I started with straightforward console programs like text-based games or calculators. I was able to comprehend the fundamentals of variables, conditionals, loops, functions, and arrays without becoming overwhelmed thanks to this.
Because it was beginner-friendly, I started with an IDE called Code::Blocks. I later switched to Visual Studio, which is used by many professionals, particularly in the game development industry. These IDEs make it simple to compile and debug your code, which is essential for beginners.
I went on to object-oriented programming (OOP), which is essential for game development, after I felt at ease with the syntax. I recall creating a basic class named Player that contained attributes like score and health. This gave me an idea of the structure of larger games, where a lot of objects interact with one another.
Next, I experimented with SFML (Simple and Fast Multimedia Library), a fantastic tool for novices to make basic 2D games in C++. I was able to create a window that displayed a bouncing ball with just a few lines of code. That experience greatly increased my confidence. It's also worthwhile to investigate other libraries, such as SDL or even Unreal Engine (for more experienced students).
For system-level programming, I experimented with writing simple utilities like file managers or memory viewers. C++ gave me control over pointers and memory management, which are vital when working close to the hardware. Although pointers were confusing at first, practice made them easier to understand.
In short, don’t try to build the next Fortnite right away. Start small, use the right tools, and build your knowledge step-by-step. Once I embraced that mindset, learning C++ became exciting instead of intimidating.
My first piece of advice for novices who wish to learn C++ game or system programming is to start small. I started with straightforward console programs like text-based games or calculators. I was able to comprehend the fundamentals of variables, conditionals, loops, functions, and arrays without becoming overwhelmed thanks to this.
Because it was beginner-friendly, I started with an IDE called Code::Blocks. I later switched to Visual Studio, which is used by many professionals, particularly in the game development industry. These IDEs make it simple to compile and debug your code, which is essential for beginners.
I went on to object-oriented programming (OOP), which is essential for game development, after I felt at ease with the syntax. I recall creating a basic class named Player that contained attributes like score and health. This gave me an idea of the structure of larger games, where a lot of objects interact with one another.
Next, I experimented with SFML (Simple and Fast Multimedia Library), a fantastic tool for novices to make basic 2D games in C++. I was able to create a window that displayed a bouncing ball with just a few lines of code. That experience greatly increased my confidence. It's also worthwhile to investigate other libraries, such as SDL or even Unreal Engine (for more experienced students).
For system-level programming, I experimented with writing simple utilities like file managers or memory viewers. C++ gave me control over pointers and memory management, which are vital when working close to the hardware. Although pointers were confusing at first, practice made them easier to understand.
In short, don’t try to build the next Fortnite right away. Start small, use the right tools, and build your knowledge step-by-step. Once I embraced that mindset, learning C++ became exciting instead of intimidating.