Windows Game Programming For Dummies

The multimedia and computer-games industry has exploded in recent years. Games have gotten incredibly sophisticatedand incredibly entertaining. The programs used to create them have improved also, to the point that you dont necessarily have to be a nerd deluxe to do it yourself. Even so, game programming can be challengingeven if youre a veteran C/C++ programmer and licensed technogeek. Challenging, surebut also incredibly cool. Using DirectXthe latest and greatest technology for making games on PCsWindows Game Programming For Dummies will help you write just about any 2D game you can conjure. Now updated to cover new DirectX and Windows releases, your friendly yellow-and-black companion will show you: The basics of video game design The nuts and bolts of Windows programming How to work with DirectXand play with DirectDraw How to make a real game, with an actual, step-by-step example How to market your mind-blowing new creation The ten biggest mistakes made by game programmersand how to avoid them From graphics to sound to input and installation, legendary game developer and Xtreme Games CEO Andr LaMothe takes you right into the guts of the gamein an entertaining style that wont send you retreating to the nearest joystick. Andrs witty, hes tons of fun, and before you know it hell have you up to speed on: Setting up your game programming workstation Getting into DirectDraw: animation techniques, bitmaps, color keying, and more Adding Direct X subsystems such as DirectSound, DirectInput, and AutoPlay Getting your hands dirty by making a real game The physics of asteroids and other flying objects: time, velocity, force, and all that Game programming websites, downloads, 3D engines, usenet groups, and more!