Question about studying C++ for certain project.

[Gregor McAlen]

Currently after doing some research and consulting bytes forum members I started to study C++ with a long-term goal of creating my own project <add-on for current 3d game engines that will calculate material based physical calculations>

For the project I'll need to create a data base of material's with their properties.
That will allow the possibility of loading their data into 3d objects, and make calculations based on database entry, when objects interact with each other.

Question is: should I study C++ as a whole (which is lots and lots of books) or I should study the basics and specialize in some specific areas if so what those area called considering this projects goal? and if some one know what books describe/teach about it in detail.

From my current understanding, if its the correct way to study then it will be DirectX 10 and Database programming techniques. I am still a newbie so my comprehension of the metter is probably wrong.

Thank you in advance for any advice on this metter.

[vmpstr]

In my opinion, you should not go into directx or database programming in C++ until you have a fairly firm grasp of C++ itself. The reason for this is that once you get into programming using some particular non-standard library, as would be the case with directx and databases, it would be easier to make mistakes and the errors would be harder to debug and comprehend. This would only increase your development time...

The best way to go is to learn C++ until you are comfortable with most of its concepts (this doesn't mean you are an expert in all of them, but that you understand them and are comfortable coding). Then, learn directx or opengl, whatever is more appropriate. Then, if you really need it, look into some database access libraries.

Disclaimer: This is all just "in my opinion"

Edit:
I don't know any books for C++ programming in general, I'm sure there are many.
For directx programming, nexe.gamedev.ne t is a good website,
For opengl programming, nehe.gamedev.ne t is a good website.

[Gregor McAlen]

Thank you, so basically the next logical question what should I know before I continue?

Currently I am finishing C++ for dummies 5th edition. It explain the basic concepts. I am not sure if its enough to move on into directx and database or there is a next level I should take before moving on?

[vmpstr]

You can always just try going through several tutorials on directx, and see how easily you get it. It will vary from person to person. If you understand the concepts of directx well, and you can code it fairly well, then just keep going forward. However, if you are struggling, then maybe it is better to go back and study up on C++ some more...

[Gregor McAlen]

You can always just try going through several tutorials on directx, and see how easily you get it. It will vary from person to person. If you understand the concepts of directx well, and you can code it fairly well, then just keep going forward. However, if you are struggling, then maybe it is better to go back and study up on C++ some more...

Thank you, I'll try this approach after I finish the book that currently occupy my mind, I studied 3d modeling and animation a while ago, hope it will help.

[weaknessforcats]

Learning C++ is like learning to speak English. Once you learn it, you still can't program a game because you don't have any game theory.

I would be inclined to pursue a theoretical database and define objects and relationships using some object-neutral tool like UML.

Only when I decided that C++ is the implentation language would I get involved with C++. Even then I might just learn enough to communicate with the programmer (who knows C++ but has no game theory either).

[Gregor McAlen]

Learning C++ is like learning to speak English. Once you learn it, you still can't program a game because you don't have any game theory.

I would be inclined to pursue a theoretical database and define objects and relationships using some object-neutral tool like UML.

Only when I decided that C++ is the implentation language would I get involved with C++. Even then I might just learn enough to communicate with the programmer (who knows C++ but has no game theory either).

I did communicate with other programers I know, describing in detail my idea and confirming that it can be done using C++. Before I even started learning any programing language I did write a detailed logical sequencing of all calculations needed for it to work.

So basically I am studying C++ in order to describe in computer language all the logical sequencing and mathematical calculations and make them work on request in shortest time possible.

[weaknessforcats]

So basically I am studying C++ in order to describe in computer language all the logical sequencing and mathematical calculations and make them work on request in shortest time possible.

Actually, providing the logic design is the shortest path to completion. By presenting those programmers with a partial solution in C++ you a) force an implementation that may not be optimum due to your inexperience in C++, b) you omit key parts required to operate your solution in C++, c) you rob the programmers of their creativity, d) you get involved with code that you didn't write and that extends the coding process, e) etc... I go on quite a ways here.

So, I would pick a design tool, may UML maybe not, and learn that. I would also have the C++ programmers learn the same tool. Then provide a design using the tool and tell them to code it.

[Gregor McAlen]

Actually, providing the logic design is the shortest path to completion. By presenting those programmers with a partial solution in C++ you a) force an implementation that may not be optimum due to your inexperience in C++, b) you omit key parts required to operate your solution in C++, c) you rob the programmers of their creativity, d) you get involved with code that you didn't write and that extends the coding process, e) etc... I go on quite a ways here.

So, I would pick a design tool, may UML maybe not, and learn that. I would also have the C++ programmers learn the same tool. Then provide a design using the tool and tell them to code it.

I tried to do so but to present an idea to a programmers with the suggestion to code it, they agreed it is possible but they will want to get payed for it... tried also to present the idea to a few people from game industry companies they liked it but they want to see a demo of this technology before they make an investment in development.

Currently without financing or a capital to create a start-up, hire programmers, and lets them do the coding based on the logical idea it is pretty impossible.

My decision was to start studying my self to code, and at least try and accomplish a demo and then represent it again to the big guys to receive financing.

I am not sure if its the correct path but I didn't find a better solution.

p.s. after checking the options of different languages and development tools seems like coding this idea will be possible in C++ and will be close to impossible in scripting languages.

[weaknessforcats]

I tried to do so but to present an idea to a programmers with the suggestion to code it, they agreed it is possible but they will want to get payed for it...

Bill Gates had that problem so he gave his developers a piece of the company.

Have you considered this?

[Gregor McAlen]

Bill Gates had that problem so he gave his developers a piece of the company.

Have you considered this?

Heh I am not bill gates junior but yes I did consider it. Just I am very sceptical to belive that some people will agree to code basicly for free, with just a promise of money after the project is completed way down the road(shares value).

It's possible this kind of companies exist, but then I have no clue on how to find those people, any advice?

[Gregor McAlen]

Is there any one who knows about it?
I have read about Virtual Company's which are based on common interest or with a target of future profit. But is it actually worth it?

[JosAH]

Is there any one who knows about it?
I have read about Virtual Company's which are based on common interest or with a target of future profit. But is it actually worth it?

Google for "virtual company", there's quite some information available. There even are umbrella organizations that help you to start up your own VC. I wonder if those organizations are umbrella companies themselves ...

Basically I like the idea but I haven't seen any successes yet. Also try to hook up with those networking organizations such as LinkedIn.com etc.

kind regards,

Jos

[Gregor McAlen]

I did google for it and found a few posts on How to make it and work it and manage it etd.

The ultimate question is where can I recruit programmers for this company if currently I don't have any financing and cant offer a salary. I didn't see many people who agree to invest their time in a project that may or may not be profitable after all.

[oler1s]

The ultimate question is where can I recruit programmers for this company if currently I don't have any financing and cant offer a salary.

Short answer, you can't. Essentially you are asking, how can i get up front free work from someone with a vague promise of future payment. Unfortunately, bills don't get paid with promises and hopes.

Yes, in certain circumstances this is a possible approach (I with a friend went on this path for a startup). But what do you bring? No money. No technical knowledge. Experience? Insider knowledge? Connections? Be realistic here.