Introduction to Windows Game Programming Using C++ (ZGP11)
This course teaches the fundamental concepts of computer game programming using Windows C++. C++ is the language used for this course because it is the standard language used for commercial games. In this course, the student will learn how to design 2D games for Windows, creating a simple game as part of the course. This course is applicable to anyone interested in learning how computer games are made. It specifically applies to people who want to learn to become a game programmer. However, the material is also useful to knowledge for other game related careers including game designers, game artists, and game producers since it will provide them with an appreciation of the technical side of game development.
Applicable Job Roles: game programmers, and application developers.
Outline
Week 1: Game Programming Concepts
Windows Programming
Why Windows?
Why C++?
Game Loop
Frames - FPS
Elements of a Game
User Input
Graphics
Sound
Week 2: Windows Framework
Creating a Windows Project
Creating the Window
Starting the Game Loop
Game Main
Capturing Events (Callback function)
Week 3: Graphics
Textures, Sprites, and Bitmaps
Sprite and Bitmap Class: Loading, Displaying, and Manipulating
Handling Boundaries
Week 4: Sound
Wav, MP3s, Oggs, MIDI
Sound effects (non looping)
Music (looping)
Week 5: User Input
Keyboard
Mouse
Week 6: Completing the Game
Polish
Splash Screen
Play Instructions/Tutorial
Ending the Game
Prerequisites
Students must have taken 'Introduction to C++ Using Games' course (ZGP10), or have a prior experience in C++ programming, or a strong background in any other languages. A background Windows programming concepts will also be helpful, though this skill will be picked up in the class.
Requirements
Operating System: Windows 2000 Service Pack 4, Windows XP Service Pack 2, Windows Server 2003 Service Pack 1, Windows x64 editions, and Windows Vista
Software: Microsoft Visual C++ 2005 Express Edition. Download free at: http://msdn2.microsoft.com/en-us/vstudio/aa700755.aspx
Processor: Minimum 600 MHz. Recommended 1 GHz
RAM: Minimum 256 MB. Recommended 512 MB
Hard Drive: Minimum 500 MB. Full Installation: 1.3 GB
Your place in the course is confirmed by your payment. Introductory courses are intended for students with no experience in the subject matter and are seeking beginner level training.
Refund Policy: Please read our Terms and Refund Policy before registering for this course.
Additional Cost: Book and software might be required for the course. Read the Requirements and Book section for more information. Course fee does not include the book and software cost .
How eClasses Work:Instructors post lectures (text-based, no video or audio), reading selections, and hands-on assignments once a week in the online classroom. Students can discuss the assignments with the instructor and amongst themselves in the classroom area. This format has no set meeting time, which allows students to attend class at a time most convenient to them, yet still provides logically organized communication between class participants. Students can apply for the completion certificate after finishing the class.
Open Courses:
No other sessions are scheduled for this course. You can add to your wish list and you will be notified when other sessions are scheduled.
Instructor's Profile
We are looking for an instructor to teach this course. To apply please visit the Teach Online section for more information.
Before you register for this class, please read the Outline, Prerequisites, Requirements, Books, and Refund Policy sections carefully.
This page is part of a preserved archive of eclasses.org. The site is no longer active and its content is not maintained. For enquiries about this archive, write to archive(at)iwanet.org.
Student Center
