Introduction to C++ for Game Developers

Source: https://www.udemy.com/course/introduction-to-cpp-for-game-developers/

What you’ll learn

Understand and correctly implement C++ variable declarations, common data types (including arrays, vectors, and maps), and I/O operations.
Use if/else statements, switch statements, and various loop structures (for, while, do-while) for game logic and iterative tasks.
Define, call, and manage functions, including the use of multiple parameters, returning values, and effectively employing enum types.
Explain the difference between Stack and Heap memory and the importance of manual memory deallocation on the Heap.
Use memory references (&) and raw pointers (*) to access memory addresses and pass variables to functions by reference for efficient modification.
Implement smart pointers to automatically manage memory and prevent common issues like memory leaks and cycling references.
Create effective C++ classes using member functions, class constructors, and class destructors to represent game objects and systems.
Utilize access specifiers (public, private, protected) to properly encapsulate data and functionality.
Implement core OOP principles, including inheritance, polymorphism, operator overloading, and manage the “Big Five”.
Install and set up a C++ Integrated Development Environment (IDE) like Visual Studio or CLion.
Understand the C++ build stages (Preprocessor, Compilation, Assembly, Linking, Execution) and organize code using header files and forward declarations.
Use a build system (e.g., CMake) to create and link static and shared libraries, and integrate external libraries (like SFML) into a C++ project.
Set up the fundamental Application and World classes to create a basic game engine loop and project structure.
Define and integrate the Object class, along with key game systems such as Physics, Damage and Health, and an Asset Manager for loading resources.
Program enemy behavior (like chasing), manage collision, apply damage to player and enemy ships, and implement weapon upgrade mechanics.
Develop an in-game Head-Up Display (HUD) and User Interface (UI) elements, including kill counts, a health bar, and a game over screen.
Apply debugging techniques to fix common issues , implement a Sound System for background music and effects, and add visual polish.

Requirements

A basic level of computer literacy (installing software, navigating file systems) and a commitment to learning a foundational programming language for advanced software development.