LÖVE

slime wrote:
Finishing something is a whole new problem added onto the idea you had for the project, so you only really solved half the problems.

I agree. If you want to learn to make a game then you should learn the whole process. If you want to learn something new (through programming) then just solve specific problems you're interested in. Creating a game and dropping it once you've learned something new has wasted time creating the game around it.

A lot of tutorials and articles around the web encourage anyone (but newbies especially) to finish their games because it gives you pride in your work and a sense of progress, which are both important in learning. Here are just a few:

http://www.yourgamedesign.com/hobby-gamedev-manifesto
http://rampantgames.com/blog/?p=1645
http://lazyfoo.net/articles/article01/index.php

Thanks all for the friendly welcome

I hope to show some progress soon. Also working on a novel for kids (based on my two boys), so wish I could make that into a game but it's a very complex (at least to me) for me to try and attempt to program it for now.

I'm enjoying the game I am working on. At least taking breaks from programming to work on the 'art' gives me a break from having a headache from doing the code solo.

DisabledTeacher wrote:Thanks all for the friendly welcome

I hope to show some progress soon. Also working on a novel for kids (based on my two boys), so wish I could make that into a game but it's a very complex (at least to me) for me to try and attempt to program it for now.

I'm enjoying the game I am working on. At least taking breaks from programming to work on the 'art' gives me a break from having a headache from doing the code solo.

Well jump on IRC any time you need help.

My best piece of advice is to do programming that is fun. That way, you learn more and don't give up

DisabledTeacher wrote:Hi everyone,
What is my goal: Well, I got two little boys (and a baby girl now) at home and as a child of the 80s, as I grew up I remember the fun, non violent blood splattering game of my youth and I want to make some games that I would be proud for them to play that won't need for them to wear blinders to hide the blood.

That is my long-term goal also, so I would be glad to help with your projects (except I do have real life work, so have not that much spare time).

DisabledTeacher wrote: 3) Any advice for a newbie like me?

I agree with all what was said before, and I would add: check the forum for code samples (demos, games), download *.love files, unzip them, try to understand, or even modify/improve. Keep an eye on LOVEJam http://love2d.org/jam - I think there will be some nice love program examples you can learn from. No book can replace your own practice.
And yes, check out the link in my footer.

Ofcourse you probably already know this,
my one thing to add is find a coding program that you feel comfortable with, notepad++ is a good starting point.

i wish you good luck and many happy returns