Which programming language?

bob · 09-27-2009, 05:14 PM

Hi all,

I'm a new guy heading down the road of Game Design and thinking it might be practical to learn a little programming (even though programming isn't what I want to focus on). Is the language I want to learn C++? Or should I learn XNA? Or both? I'm pretty new, hence this probably obvious question. Also, I assume I need to know how to use Maya - am I correct on that?

P.S. Any employed game designers ever have to program?

Thanks a ton, and thanks in advance to anyone who feels like answering. These message boards are such an awesome resource thanks to you guys.

-B

tsloper · 09-27-2009, 05:16 PM

XNA uses C#.
And yes, sometimes they do.

bob · 09-27-2009, 05:24 PM

Wow, THE Tom replied to my message! I read sloperama all the time! Ha. Seriously, thanks for the answer. I assume that means I should learn C++ (C#).

B

tsloper · 09-27-2009, 08:38 PM

C#, I hear, is a little less intimidating than C++ - a gateway language (provided you've already been through other easier gateways)

yaustar · 09-28-2009, 01:15 AM

C++ isn't C#, they are two different languages. To be honest, if you just want to dip into programming, any language is fine. Lua and Python are usually good languages to start off with as they are commonly used to script mission and game logic in the industry.

Basically, just pick any language and run with it. It's going to help regardless.

Ezion · 09-28-2009, 09:39 AM

Depending on how much time you have and how motivated you are, you might consider Game Maker 8 or Flash (CS3+.)

These two programs/languages will let you prototype very quickly, as opposed to C++ where you may spend several months before you ever get something graphical on the screen (depending on how/what you teach yourself.)

GM8 will be easier to start using, while Flash will be more powerful and versatile.

Protector one · 09-28-2009, 09:40 AM

Actually, I'd recommend against Python, as that might make you believe all programming is that easy! :P
Downloading XNA and messing around with existing projects is a fun way to get your toes wet.

Monkeh · 09-28-2009, 12:11 PM

I've used a lot of scripting during my design experience.

To generalize your question:

"Is it good to learn about other roles that are closely related to my desired profession?"

Yes.

Ezion · 09-28-2009, 06:08 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Protector one

Actually, I'd recommend against Python, as that might make you believe all programming is that easy! :P

Though to be fair, Eve Online is created largely using Python. Last time I talked to one of the CCP Representatives, they told me that if I could pass their Python exam, then I was guarenteed an internship at their Atlanta studio.

Protector one · 09-29-2009, 09:30 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ezion

Though to be fair, Eve Online is created largely using Python. Last time I talked to one of the CCP Representatives, they told me that if I could pass their Python exam, then I was guarenteed an internship at their Atlanta studio.

Wow, that sounds like a great opportunity! Are you going for it?