About This Wiki

The C++ Wiki is dedicated to helping you learn how to make games using C++.

You don't need any experience in programming or making games, we'll teach you everything we know.¹

Why Use C++?

There are many reasons why to choose C++ over other languages.

Widely Used

C++ is one of the most popular programming languages around. It is certainly the most popular programming language used to make games. If you get a job programming games, there's an almost certain possibility that the game company you will work make their games using C++.

Because C++ is so widely used, there are many game programming libraries and game engines available, many of which are open source and/or completely free to use by the hobbyist. These libraries and engines make it much easier to reach your goal.

It's Fast

C++ is one of the fastest programming languages out there. Because it's so fast, you can squeeze more power out of a computer for better special effects, realistic physics, and smart AI. The power of C++ is one reason that it's an industry standard.

Using Code::Blocks

The first thing you need is a code editor and a compiler. Together, they are known as an Integrated Development Environment or IDE.

There are many environments you can use to develop in C++, but around here we are using Code::Blocks, as it is free and works on many different platforms, so anyone can join. You can download it from the Code::Blocks Website. If possible, get the version that includes the MinGW compiler. Otherwise you have to download the Mingw32 compiler here: http://www.mingw.org/

Here is a list of tutorials for Code::Blocks:

• How to Execute Code Examples — kill those code examples! (no really, 'execute' means to 'run the code')
• How to Create a Project

Tutorials!

When you feel you know how to use Code::Blocks, you should take a look at the C++ tutorials page.