Beginning C++ Game Programming

by John Horton

This book is all about offering you a fun introduction to the world of game programming and C++. It will begin by teaching you the programming basics such as variables, loops, and conditions using game-like mini apps.

We then move on to build actual working games. Throughout the course of the book, you will learn to build three different styles of games comprising a frantic two-button-tapper, a zombie survival/shooter, and a multiplayer platformer. While building these games, you will learn some more C++ programming concepts such as OOP and data storage/complexity. We’ll end by creating a multiplayer shooter game and will also introduce you to some of the advanced capabilities of C++ such as networking and advanced OOP.

As the games gradually increase in complexity, you will explore some of the advanced capabilities of C++ as well as some exciting new game programming techniques.

What you will learn

Get to know C++ from scratch while simultaneously learning about building games
Make C++ game coding appear like it is something that any determined person can do
Get a competent level knowledge of C++ programming.
Build exciting games with a wide range of features
Get ready to go and build your own unique games

Genres: Programming

514 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 11, 2018

Reviews

[Darin · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've been reading several books on beginning programming to get a better sense of what is available to people who are exploring it for the first time (I've been in the industry for more than 25 yrs). The three projects that are produced as part of the book have a good amount of functionality, and the later projects touch more on the ideas of good code organization. Concepts like object-oriented programming are also put in play through the use of the open-source graphics library used. Completing these projects will also give someone experience with using and navigation Microsoft Visual Studio (version 2015 is used in the book).

Working through the examples made me realize how much of a learning curve there is for C++ if you're seeing it for the first time, but other than a few typos where actual code is embedded in comments a novice shouldn't have any problem getting the code to work. The source is also available for download along with all the graphics and audio files needed.

[Nick Jaremek · Rating 4 out of 5]

Even though the games presented in this book are not professional-grade, they serve as a well introduction to the core concepts involved in making a game.

The C++ programming language is also nicely introduced in a progressive manner. Perhaps the author could have used programming patterns more extensively, but overall, the book is nice to dive a little bit into actual game development.

Of course, real videogames are more complex, better structured in terms of code and assets, but with this book a journey in game development can actually begin.

[Joseph Le · Rating 2 out of 5]

some good examples and clear in the first 3/4, but the later chapters did poorly at explaining what was going on

[Kornél Tóth · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am a computer science MSc student, so not part of the target audience. I've picked up the book to brush up my knowledge on OOP paradigms and learn some more high level graphical library (I've had hard times with OpenGL). In terms of my expectations the book delivers.

The target audience as the book states are beginners of programming. I would say, that the book is readable for people who have some experience in programming. I don't think that C++ should be the first language someone picks up. Because of this "beginner friendly" attitude the book provides minimal theoretical background and a huge emphasis on practice.

If you are not an absolute beginner, and want to get into game programming, than this is a book I would recommend.