How do you get started in programming in Blitz Basic?

Diefy72 · Post by **Diefy72** » Wed Jul 16, 2008 7:44 pm

Hey wats up? I was wondering if you could tell me about Blitz Basic. I'm a beginner and I don't know anything about programing but I want to learn. How did you start out? what did you do to get to where you are now? I have no idea where to start or even how to start.Can you please help me?

Post by **Moosader** » Thu Jul 17, 2008 2:11 am

http://www.youtube.com/view_play_list?p ... F8C4CB5498

Arce · Post by **Arce** » Thu Jul 17, 2008 1:48 pm

Before I could really help ya...First I need to know your intentions.

Why do you want to learn to program? What types of applications would you envision yourself making? Do you actually want to program, or do you simply want to create video games?

Because you asked about Blitz specifically, I'm assuming you may have seen taht video already and made up your mind about some of the above questions. If so, lemme know.

Diefy72 · Post by **Diefy72** » Thu Jul 17, 2008 3:33 pm

I want to program becuase I've always been interested in it. I started whaching yalls videos and ever since I've wanted to learn. even before that I wanted to just learn basic programming. I want to learn how to program video games because that is what I want to some day become. I just don't know anything about programming where to start or go to. I have no idea of how to get started. I installed Blitz Plus demo on my computer but I have no clue as to how to program in it or anythin. I want to learn how to program in C++, C,Java, Dark Basic, you know stuff like that..I want to one day create my own video games and distribute them like yall are doing.At my school Abilene High they say they have all these computer classes and programming classes and stuff but outa all the classes I wanted to take none of them were offered so I've basically resorted to teaching myself but as you can see it's not going to well. I wanted to start learning early so I could how a foundation for when I go to college.

cypher1554R · Post by **cypher1554R** » Thu Jul 17, 2008 4:03 pm

C++ = powah!

Get a a C++ step by step guide.. like C++ for dummies or something like that. Complete every exercise, without skipping! <- this is important. make sure you have the understanding on fundamentals, after a few months, you'll be ready to rock with openGL or SDL or DirectX.. whatever you prefer..

PS: Yeah, I know.. It's a little bit more complicated than that, but if you're really dedicated so much, that you're willing to take tons of crap, months/years of life, you stand a good chance.

Arce · Post by **Arce** » Fri Jul 18, 2008 7:41 pm

Okay, there are many paths you can take.

If you're planning on making a career out of programming, then one day you're going to need to make a switch to either C++ or Java, as those are currently dominating the industry.

However, for the purpose of learning, you can begin with something simpler (my personal recommendation). If it is game development you're looking into, then BlitzPlus, as you said, would be a perfect starting point. It will help you to become familiar with the structure of a game.

So...How to get started with Blitz? There are many, many ways you can go about this. Perhaps the quickest and easiest way would be to purchase the book "Game Programming for Teens", which takes you through a decent (though not complete) view of the BlitzPlus language, and teaches you how to create a game. You'd probably be able to find this title at your local books-a-million or similar store.

If you're not a book type of person, then you can always browse online. Googling "how to get started with BlitzPlus" can sometimes bring amazing results. Checking out the official BlitzPlus forums, or GameDev.net may be beneficial. Online tutorials are plentyful, and if you're willing to go out of you way to find them, then go right ahead.

The final method you could use to teach yourself would be the help files that came with the Blitz IDE. There should be a full index of commands that not only tells you how to use them, but also supplies examples. Also, if you buy the full version, it comes with games you can use as an example. Furthermore, blitz also comes with a 'getting started' tutorial that should get you in the right direction. I personally used all 3 methods to learn Blitz, but I do believe this one was the most helpful. The best way to learn is to do, I know this for a fact. Finding commands in the reference and tinkering with them is a decent way to learn.

Also, if you ever run into problems or questions during your learning, please feel free to post them here. They are bound to appear, probably often for a beginner. I taught a class at my school on BlitzPlus for 2 years, using only my own personal experience and knowledge. I'd be happy to help you to the best of my abilities. However, please be sure to phrase the question in a clear, concise, understandable way, as well as any RELEVANT code, and the error message. You will find that I respond MUCH faster to a post that appears as though somebody took time in making.

Good luck to you. Update us on your progress as you are able.

cypher1554R · Post by **cypher1554R** » Sat Jul 19, 2008 1:04 am

Arce wrote:Also, if you ever run into problems or questions during your learning, please feel free to post them here.

Arce wrote:I'd be happy to help you to the best of my abilities.

Are you trying to get a tumor.?

Post by **eatcomics** » Sun Jul 20, 2008 1:27 pm

I wouldn't recomend c++ for dummies everyone says it's a mess but sam's teach yourself c++ in 21 days might be good

Post by **Falco Girgis** » Sun Jul 20, 2008 2:52 pm

I used Sam's Teach Yourself in 21 Days. I recommend it.

Post by **eatcomics** » Mon Jul 21, 2008 3:20 am

I still need to buy that...

cypher1554R · Post by **cypher1554R** » Mon Jul 21, 2008 3:23 am

I learned mostly from this one: Beginning C++ game programming - by Michael Dawson

a nice step by step guide learning C++ explaining why and where in games should you use certain methods.. You kinda learn C++ but think games..

Post by **eatcomics** » Wed Aug 06, 2008 7:58 pm

I have never heard of that book, I might look into it.