Novice programmer needs help.

[CthePredatorG]

Hello to all on this forum!

My name is CthePredatorG, and I need help with learning how to program. Not just the Id tech 4 engine (although that is the initial intent), but C++ and other languages in general!

I've had a huge project in mind for a few days now to heavily modify the Id Tech 4 engine to a point of fantastic modern capabilities, much like how Splash Damage modified it for BRINK, but even better! But there's a problem: I lack any kind of programming skill. I was in engineering classes in high school and didn't take any programming courses. Anyway, I need some pointers on the source code and C++, as well as recommendations for books and or websites where I can study up on it. I am NOT asking for a teacher (although that would be nice), I am just asking for pointers and advice to get me started on the right path.

Thank you in advance.

[BloodRayne]

I would advice you to start with a smaller project to learn programming as what you are describing seems impossible for somebody with no programming skills (I have 20+ years of programming experience and I can't even begin to fathom where to start to implementing Brink like improvements on the D3 Engine).

A starting point may be: http://www.learncpp.com/
Then you'll need to learn about DirectX: http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/windows/apps/jj554502.aspx
Of course you'll want to keep it OpenGL compliant (or not): http://www.glprogramming.com/red/

Good luck with your project!

[Bladeghost]

BloodRayne is a seasoned veteran and knows what he's talking about.
a good tool to use for D3 I found is conText
http://www.contexteditor.org/index.php
I use it in level scripting and other stuff.
beats always having visual studio load up all the time
for a peek at files and for scripting.
same best of vision to make a project and groove with it.
see how it goes, let us know.

[CthePredatorG]

Thank you so much for your quick responses! To be honest, I wasn't sure if anyone would respond to me. I've checked out the links that you guys sent me, and I believe they will start me off on the right track. Once again, thank you so much for responding!