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.

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