C++ vs. Java

[Daedalus]

I've got my mind set on learning a programming language. I have a lot of time because several breaks (thankgiving, winter) are going on at my school. I was just wondering which would be better for game design in the long run - C++ or Java? I know Minecraft was created in Java, and making a 3D game like that is my long-term goal. So yeah, was just wondering which was better.

ALSO, I haven't had any luck finding beginners tutorials for either of them.

tl;dr: Tell me if C++ or Java is better for game design and help me find a tutorial to get started

[Ad Bot]

[Raeyok]

If you want to create a very high-end, nice-looking game, C++ is better. Go to your local bookstore and look in the computer section for a programming book on C++. If you can find it, "The C++ Programming Language" is a good book to have, mainly because it's pretty big and was written by the creator of C++ himself, Bjarne Stroustrup.

[Bisjac]

if you want the money, java lol.

sure c++ is key to making major high end games and apps.
but the way the internet is evolving, there is lot of market for browser apps and games.

[Raeyok]

sure c++ is key to making major high end games and apps.
but the way the internet is evolving, there is lot of market for browser apps and games.

Yeah, this is true.

So basically, more time-consuming but higher-end game, C++. Faster, more profitable game, Java.

[Daedalus]

Yeah, this is true.

So basically, more time-consuming but higher-end game, C++. Faster, more profitable game, Java.

I'll go with Java.
I have no money, unfortunately, but I may persuade my dad into buying me a Java book later. In case he isn't moved by the riveting speech I'm bound to give him (lawl), could you guys find an online tutorial for me? I've had no luck :U

[Bisjac]

you could make java games yourself. put them on facebook. make HUGE loving add money from them. or make money from facebook with those facebook content points people can buy and use on games.

you could make smartphone apps and games, sell them cheap at decent quantity

and even these are  small time, do it yourself projects.
people underestimate java

[Raeyok]

First Daedalus, you'll need an IDE (Integrated Development Environment), such as Eclipse, which is free. Once you've downloaded and installed that, take a look at some resources from Oracle's website (Oracle bought Sun Microsystems, the original creators of Java). Other than that, just use Google to find some learning resources.

[Daedalus]

First Daedalus, you'll need an IDE (Integrated Development Environment), such as Eclipse, which is free. Once you've downloaded and installed that, take a look at some resources from Oracle's website (Oracle bought Sun Microsystems, the original creators of Java). Other than that, just use Google to find some learning resources.

Thank you, sir.
Alright, I got some money from my dad. What would be the best book to start with?

[Raeyok]

Thank you, sir.
Alright, I got some money from my dad. What would be the best book to start with?

O'Reilly Media makes a bunch of very useful programming books. Look at the books they have in the Java section of their website.

[Bisjac]

its always good to have some books, resources to dig up when your working on a project and need help with something.
easier then googling up help, or asking some java forum.

but for really nooby learning, i would say find a popular youtube series on it. one where they tell you what good free resources they use that you can download and follow along.

[Daedalus]

O'Reilly Media makes a bunch of very useful programming books. Look at the books they have in the Java section of their website.

Don't have enough money. I only have 20 bucks. Would this work?

[JAW959]

First Daedalus, you'll need an IDE (Integrated Development Environment), such as Eclipse, which is free. Once you've downloaded and installed that, take a look at some resources from Oracle's website (Oracle bought Sun Microsystems, the original creators of Java). Other than that, just use Google to find some learning resources.

I'd like to get involved in this too, could you explain what those are? (the resources and IDE)

[Skele]

I'd go with C/C++ first simply because they give you a respect for managed environments like Java and C#. Java does a lot of things for you behind the scenes, C and C++ will at least show you what it does for you since you need to do it yourself in those languages.

[lordician]

I am studying programming and am learning the ways of Java.
Year 1, so very basic stuff.
We now have a project to make a game and my group chose to program one in Java.

It's gonna be fun.
But hard.
More on-topic:
Yes, C++ is harder and the way of the high-end games, but since Java is rising, you should definitly learnto program in Java.

The book i had to buy for collge for Java programming was: "Programming with Java" from Schaum's outlines.
Writer: John R.Hubbard, Ph.D.
However, my teacher said there was even a more detailed book (but very heavy and big :O).
Which costs quite a lot.
Which is why we had to buy this one, not that fatty fat fat one.

If you need some help in the basics, i would love to help you out.
PM me, if you want.
Even if i don't know thee answer, i would try to find it.
As it would help me out a lot too. ;)

I'd go with C/C++ first simply because they give you a respect for managed environments like Java and C#. Java does a lot of things for you behind the scenes, C and C++ will at least show you what it does for you since you need to do it yourself in those languages.

True, but you can start with Java too.
It's easier and you can learn something about the structure of code with Java too.
So yeah, i would choose for Java.
But if i wanted the best results, i would've learned C/C++ first, yes.

[Nitramtj]

The only problem with Java is that it's owned by oracle. It really hasn't been an issue so far, and probably won't be, but it's just a little shady.

I agree with bisjac, if you want to actually do something in the first year, you probably want to use Java. I love c++, and highly recommend it, but it's something that's more useful in the long run.