So you've heard about this progamming-whatchamacallit and you heard it can be used to make games or software but you have no idea how to get started. Well, the first thing you need to do is download a program that will be able to compile the C++ code. There are many different programs out there and they all have their own pros and cons, so one program that is great for one person may seem crap to you.
The program I use is called Dev-C++ by a little company called Bloodshed Software. The page is here and the direct-link to the download is here. Note that there are many versions, that one is the latest beta of Dev-C++ 5 - you can download Dev-C++ 4 here if you want to be sure the program is stable.
You can get a load of others such as Microsoft Visual C++, among others.
Ok, so now you've downloaded your C++ editor/compiler and are ready to start coding this amazing game of yours - but theres a catch. You actually need to learn how to program first. So what you want to do is start off with the basics, then build your way up until you are good enough to put it all into practice and build a real game.
The first thing you'll learn is how to compile basic programs that run in the command prompt window. So start a new C++ source file (File>New>Source File) then type the code below into the editing area:
#include <iostream>
using namespace std;
int main(){
cout<<"Hello World\n";
system("pause");
return 0;
}
Then compile the program and run it (Execute>Compile & Run), to see what it prints on screen.
The first thing you do with a C++ program is include the necessary librarys, you do this by typing #include then the name of the library you are wanting to import - for example:
#include <math.h>
#include "myheader.h"
Will include the math library and the myheader (a fictional header you could create yourself) header file. Librarys are necessary because they are what contain all of the functions you need to create your program. Without them the functions won't work. You should also always add the line:
using namespace std;
because it allows you to use the standard library (you need it to use functions like cout and cin as long as you include the iostream library as well).
Another thing to remember is that you need to end all lines with a semi-colon (a ;) or else it will bring up an error because the compiler won't know that the line has ended.
Sup, bitches :)