6 replies to this topic

[unknown_her0]

Ok im going to college for Video Game Developement and i know that i am gonna at least make one MMOFPS game and i wanted to know what was some good software to use weather its c++ coding or its just a drag and drop kind of thing (either is fine with me as long as its good). If you can give me a list of the sites that you found then that would be good so i can do some research before i jump up and buy the software k thanx lots

[Sol_HSA]

I guess you could contact ncsoft and ask if you could buy tabula rasa now that it has been shut down..

[alphadog]

Here's a good site: www.devmaster.com.

Try the database or the forum search function to find a suitable engine. There's lots of engine in the DB, and lots of threads on engines in the forums.

Part of going to college is now doing homework for yourself, big boy. Learn quick, because it's a dog-eat-dog world out there and you're wearing Milkbone underwear.

[fireside]

Which drag and drop MMO school will you be attending? Maybe you can get a masters in "Click and Play".
If you want to prepare yourself for a career in game development don't even bother looking for an engine. Choose a language and find a 2d graphics library and start writing your own 2d games. You could also choose a modeler and get started learning modeling. You won't be writing at least one MMO because those are written by large teams of professionals and they can only put out one in the time you will be in college.

[alphadog]

fireside said:

You could also choose a modeler and get started learning modeling.

I'm assuming you meant pick a library or pick a modeling tool? If you meant pick both, I would recommend to readers to be careful with that approach. You could end up jack-of-all-master-of-none.

Basically, you can focus on building engines, building games or building content/assets. Pick your top 1 interest. If you want to have a broader base rather than deeper one, give it about 70-80% of your time and pick a second. Else, just focus on your sole interest and become a guru in that domain.

[fireside]

Quote

I'm assuming you meant pick a library or pick a modeling tool?

Not really. I think it's good to know a little about both before specializing. They integrate a lot. Personal opinion, however. I suppose if there is one person in charge and making decisions it's all right, but I've come across programmers that were so in the dark about modeling they couldn't put a texture on a box. Once in school, specialization will become a necessity. I am in the jack-of-all-trades category myself, though.

[alphadog]

Well, I just make a minor distinction.

Given we all live with a fixed amount of time, I would caution a n00b game designer/maker (As opposed to an indie, who typically starts out doing everything under the sun...) to not spend too much time early on modeling or on engine building. Pick up a generalist book and give it a read-through to get a grasp on the fundamentals and the lingo? Sure, that's good and useful. But, focus on your top 1 by dedicating a majority of your time to it, because time slips away real quick...