Getting Started

If you want to make video games, you need 3 things.

1) Math Math Math (to help with #2)

2) Problem Solving Skills ( In Programming Languages)

3) Passion (to keep you alive when the first two have you pissed at the world)

Programming

C and C++ are commonly used, and are basically the same thing. C++ actually contains everything C has and then some (hence the name C++). Many program in both, they both have advantages and disadvantage, but if you know them both, you can utilize only the advantages.

My personal suggestion to learning how to program is to get a good C & C++ book as well as a Windows/DirectX book (or Mac OS as the case may be) AND and book of mind puzzles and games. (books)

Learning to program can be a drag and discouraging at times, but the way to conquer this is to keep sight of your goal. If you want to make a game -then start ASAP! if all you can do is text, make a number guessing game, or a text 'hack-n-slash'. As you get better, pull out a book on riddles and puzzles, find a puzzle that you can figure out on your own, then teach the computer to do it. IF YOU CAN SOLVE PROBLEMS, then you can write games with easy (and you won't be discouraged by new problems).

If you want to make games, then do it. Don't sit around wondering if you can, just go for it. Start with something easy and expand on it. Remember! all the best games started and stayed simple (Mario, Tetris, etc.)... but don't dismiss the stuff you learn in school and college... when you're

learning about physics, link lists, sorting, and all that 'boring' stuff, don't drift to sleep, say to yourself "wow, if I put all my game sprites on a link list, then sort them according to their type, they will always draw in the correct order"

If you already know how to program, get a jump on Pointers, Link Lists, Recursive Functions, and Problem Solving (I Cannot Stress That Once Enough). Those are the things that separate the men from the boys (or Women from girls, etc.).

From Here

If you want a more detailed description about becoming a game programmer, background information, or more on just what a game programmer involves, you might want to check out,

So you want to be a Computer Game Developer.