DirectX for C++

[fartman_900]

I just have a 2 questions in general about DX.

1. I want to start off doing like DX7 stuff, mostly 2D at first. Once i get used to DX 7, I'll go to DX 8 3D stuff. Does this mean i need to download DX 7 SDK and then would i have to download the DX 8 SDK???Or can i just download one of them?

2. What tutorials (give sites) should i start off with to get into DX 7 in C++?? Then DX 8?

Any answers are appriciated.

[Electroman]

As far as C++ goes I can't be sure but I think you'll have to get both SDKs seen as tho its C++ (for VB you wouldn't need any, unless you wanted the documentation and examples), the SDKs only contain Documentation for the version that you downloaded for so if you want docs and examples you need to get both. If you don't mind bout that then try getting the SDK for Dx8 first and if it won't let you do Dx7 Stuff you'll know you need the SDK for Dx7 as well. As for sites I would have said www.directX4vb.com but cos its C++ I suggest you search this forum because theres always people asking that and I've seen it answed millions of times (but don't remember the urls ).

[Electroman]

http://www.gamedev.net/ and http://www.flipcode.com/ are two.

[CodeRonin]

Since DX is downwards compatible, you need only download dx8 sdk. I agree with electroman, flipcode is great.

[NoteMe]

No you need to download both of them....At run time you can use DX8 for Direct Draw stuff....buth at design time you need DX7 for Direct Draw. The Direct Draw part is not in the DX8 SDK at all...but it is in DX9...

[sql_lall]

I know this sounds cheesy, and is probably the most costly, but by far the best way is to get a book/manual that walks you through it in written version and code.
I tried to learn a bit by looking at the so called "Tutorials" with Dx8 SDK, but all i found was commented sample code, which when I tried to convert to something i wanted to make it caused a physical memory dump....
Anyway, if you can't get a book, then the next safest thing i guess is find a tutorial that includes a finished program. This way you don't have to spend so long coding the useless and at times incomprehensible technical code, and can spend more time altering it to suit your needs.
You are free to learn it however u like, this is just in my experience.

[CornedBee]

"Tricks of the Windows Game Programming Gurus", 2nd Edition, André LaMothe

Teaches you about everything you need to know about DirectDraw. Also lots of stuff about DirectInput, DirectSound, DirectMusic and general game programming.

[fartman_900]

Originally posted by CornedBee
"Tricks of the Windows Game Programming Gurus", 2nd Edition, André LaMothe

Teaches you about everything you need to know about DirectDraw. Also lots of stuff about DirectInput, DirectSound, DirectMusic and general game programming.

That book is for C++ right? Can this book teach me skills i need to make a game after im done reading it?(a basic side scrolling game) Has anyone ever read this book and if so, was it worth it?

[CornedBee]

It is for a very C-stylish C++. And yes, you will be able to make a side-scrolling game after you're done.

I have read the first edition. And I recommend it most warmly.

[NoteMe]

What about the "Zen of game programming" or what it is called...I have heard that one is really good too...