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Dr. Tim "Dr. T" Chamillard

This course is all about starting to learn how to develop video games using the C++ programming language and the Unreal Engine on Windows or Mac.

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This course is all about starting to learn how to develop video games using the C++ programming language and the Unreal Engine on Windows or Mac.

This course assumes you have previous programming experience in some other language. Although we'll start at the very beginning for C++, hardly anybody learns (or teaches) C++ as a first language. Similarly, Unreal Engine is a commercial, industrial strength game engine. With great power comes great ... complexity, so it's important that you have the will to work hard to learn how to use C++ in Unreal Engine.

Computer programming is really fun in general, and programming games is even better!

Caution: Introduction (starting to learn C++ and Unreal Engine) is not the same as easy (not hard to do). Learning to program using C++ in Unreal Engine IS hard to do, especially since this course is essentially the first half of a freshman-level college course. Meeting the course challenges while you master the material will be rewarding to you, but doing that will require hard work and maybe even a few expletives along the way.

Module 1: Write your first C++ console application and Unreal script

Module 2: Learn how we store and use data in our programs

Module 3: Learn how we use classes and objects to implement our code

Module 4: Learn the basics of Unreal Engine

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What's inside

Syllabus

Starting to Program
In this module, you'll learn about the course and get Unreal installed and configured. You'll write your first C++ console application and your first C++ script in Unreal.
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Data Types, Variables, and Constants
In this module, you'll learn how information is stored in the computer using binary and you'll learn how data types tell us how to interpret the bits and memory and what operations we can perform on those bits. You'll also learn about the most commonly-used numeric types in C++, you'll get some practice reading documentation (which programmers do all the time!), and you'll learn how to use the debugger to find and fix bugs in your code.
Classes and Objects
In this module, you'll learn the foundational concepts in the Object-Oriented (OO) paradigm. This paradigm is incredibly useful in game development, because it models our software system as a set of software objects that interact with each other. Those concepts map nicely to games, which typically include lots of game entities that interact with each other. You'll learn how to actually use classes and objects in your code as well.
Unreal Engine Basics
In this module, you'll start learning how to use Unreal Engine. We'll explore how to import models into our games, how to set up the orthographic camera and light source for a "2D" game, how to create reusable assets (blueprints) you can add to the game either in the editor or from scripts, and how to use the physics system. You'll finally do more in Unreal than just write scripts!

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Provides an accessible entry into game development with clear module progression
Taught by Dr. Tim "Dr. T" Chamillard, an industry professional and scholar recognized for their work in game development
Emphasizes industry-standard tools, such as C++ and Unreal Engine, ensuring relevance in the game development field
Requires basic programming experience, making it suitable for learners with a foundational understanding of coding principles
Focuses on foundational concepts in Object-Oriented programming, a paradigm commonly used in game development
Explores the basics of Unreal Engine, providing hands-on experience with a widely adopted game development platform

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Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Introduction to C++ Programming and Unreal with these activities:
Read 'C++ Primer'
Enhance your understanding of C++ by reading 'C++ Primer', a comprehensive guide that covers the language's core concepts and advanced features.
View C++ Primer on Amazon
Show steps
  • Read the book thoroughly
  • Take notes and highlight important concepts
Compile a resource list on game development
Expand your knowledge and resources by compiling a list of relevant blogs, articles, videos, and tools related to game development.
Browse courses on Game Development
Show steps
  • Research and identify valuable resources
  • Organize and categorize the resources
Solve C++ coding challenges
Practice writing C++ code by solving coding challenges to improve your understanding of syntax and problem-solving skills.
Browse courses on C++
Show steps
  • Find C++ coding challenges online or in a book
  • Solve the coding challenges using C++
  • Review the solutions and identify areas for improvement
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Follow Unreal Engine tutorials
Gain hands-on experience with Unreal Engine by following guided tutorials to build game prototypes and experiment with its features.
Browse courses on Unreal Engine
Show steps
  • Find Unreal Engine tutorials online or in the documentation
  • Follow the tutorials step-by-step
  • Experiment with the code and explore different options
Attend Unreal Engine workshop
Gain exposure to industry practices and techniques by attending an Unreal Engine workshop led by experienced game developers.
Browse courses on Unreal Engine
Show steps
  • Find and register for an Unreal Engine workshop
  • Attend the workshop and actively participate
  • Network with other attendees and speakers
Develop a simple game using C++ and Unreal Engine
Apply your knowledge and creativity by developing a simple game using C++ and Unreal Engine to reinforce your understanding and showcase your skills.
Browse courses on Game Development
Show steps
  • Design the game and plan its mechanics
  • Implement the game logic using C++ in Unreal Engine
  • Create game assets and build the game world
  • Test and debug the game
  • Share your game with others
Start a personal game development project
Apply your skills and knowledge by starting a personal game development project to challenge yourself and showcase your abilities.
Browse courses on Game Development
Show steps
  • Define the scope and goals of the project
  • Create a project plan and timeline
  • Develop the game using C++ and Unreal Engine
  • Test and iterate on the game
  • Share your progress and get feedback

Career center

Learners who complete Introduction to C++ Programming and Unreal will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Game Developer
As a Game Developer, you will be responsible for the development of video games. This course will help you build a foundation in the C++ programming language, which is commonly used in game development. You will also learn how to use the Unreal Engine, a popular game engine used by many professional game developers. This course can help you develop the skills you need to be successful in this field.
Video Game Designer
As a Video Game Designer, you will be responsible for the design and development of video games. This course will help you build a foundation in the C++ programming language, which is commonly used in game development. You will also learn how to use the Unreal Engine, a popular game engine used by many professional game developers. This course can help you develop the skills you need to be successful in this field.
Level Designer
As a Level Designer, you will be responsible for creating the levels in video games. This course will help you build a foundation in the C++ programming language, which is commonly used in game development. You will also learn how to use the Unreal Engine, a popular game engine used by many professional game developers. This course can help you develop the skills you need to be successful in this field.
Technical Artist
As a Technical Artist, you will be responsible for creating the technical assets used in video games. This course will help you build a foundation in the C++ programming language, which is commonly used in game development. You will also learn how to use the Unreal Engine, a popular game engine used by many professional game developers. This course can help you develop the skills you need to be successful in this field.
Environment Artist
As an Environment Artist, you will be responsible for creating the environments used in video games. This course will help you build a foundation in the C++ programming language, which is commonly used in game development. You will also learn how to use the Unreal Engine, a popular game engine used by many professional game developers. This course can help you develop the skills you need to be successful in this field.
Software Engineer
As a Software Engineer, you will be responsible for the design, development, and maintenance of software applications. This course will help you build a foundation in the C++ programming language, which is commonly used in software development. You will also learn how to use the Unreal Engine, a popular game engine that is also used in the development of other types of software applications. This course can help you develop the skills you need to be successful in this field.
Character Artist
As a Character Artist, you will be responsible for creating the characters used in video games. This course will help you build a foundation in the C++ programming language, which is commonly used in game development. You will also learn how to use the Unreal Engine, a popular game engine used by many professional game developers. This course can help you develop the skills you need to be successful in this field.
Concept Artist
As a Concept Artist, you will be responsible for creating the concept art used in video games. This course will help you build a foundation in the C++ programming language, which is commonly used in game development. You will also learn how to use the Unreal Engine, a popular game engine used by many professional game developers. This course can help you develop the skills you need to be successful in this field.
Animator
As an Animator, you will be responsible for creating the animations used in video games. This course will help you build a foundation in the C++ programming language, which is commonly used in game development. You will also learn how to use the Unreal Engine, a popular game engine used by many professional game developers. This course can help you develop the skills you need to be successful in this field.
Rigger
As a Rigger, you will be responsible for creating the rigs used in video games. This course will help you build a foundation in the C++ programming language, which is commonly used in game development. You will also learn how to use the Unreal Engine, a popular game engine used by many professional game developers. This course can help you develop the skills you need to be successful in this field.
Computer Programmer
As a Computer Programmer, you will be responsible for writing and maintaining computer programs. This course can help you develop the skills you need to be successful in this field by providing you with a foundation in the C++ programming language and in the Unreal Engine, which is a popular game engine that is also used in the development of other types of software applications.
Machine Learning Engineer
As a Machine Learning Engineer, you will be responsible for developing and deploying machine learning models. This course can help you develop the skills you need to be successful in this field by providing you with a foundation in the C++ programming language and in the Unreal Engine, which is a popular game engine that is also used in the development of other types of software applications.
Database Administrator
As a Database Administrator, you will be responsible for managing and maintaining databases. This course can help you develop the skills you need to be successful in this field by providing you with a foundation in the C++ programming language and in the Unreal Engine, which is a popular game engine that is also used in the development of other types of software applications.
Systems Engineer
As a Systems Engineer, you will be responsible for designing and implementing computer systems. This course can help you develop the skills you need to be successful in this field by providing you with a foundation in the C++ programming language and in the Unreal Engine, which is a popular game engine that is also used in the development of other types of software applications.
Data Scientist
As a Data Scientist, you will be responsible for collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data. This course can help you develop the skills you need to be successful in this field by providing you with a foundation in the C++ programming language and in the Unreal Engine, which is a popular game engine that is also used in the development of other types of software applications.

Reading list

We've selected eight books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Introduction to C++ Programming and Unreal.
Is specifically tailored for beginners in Unreal Engine game development. It offers a comprehensive guide to the engine's features and workflow, providing practical examples and tutorials that will enhance your hands-on experience with Unreal Engine.
Is widely recognized as the definitive C++ programming language reference, providing comprehensive coverage of the language's syntax and semantics. It offers a deep dive into the fundamentals of C++, making it a valuable resource for supplementing your understanding of the course material.
Provides an in-depth exploration of the architecture of game engines. It covers topics such as rendering, physics, and networking, offering a comprehensive understanding of the underlying systems that power modern games.
Provides a solid foundation in object-oriented programming concepts, using C++ as the primary language. It covers essential topics such as classes, objects, inheritance, and polymorphism, which will complement the course's focus on these concepts.
Provides a comprehensive guide to the development of physics engines for games. It covers topics such as collision detection, rigid body dynamics, and fluid simulation, offering a deep dive into the technical aspects of game physics.
Offers a practical guide to game programming patterns, which are reusable solutions to common problems in game development. It covers a wide range of patterns, from basic to advanced, helping you to write more efficient and effective game code.
Provides a comprehensive overview of data structures and algorithms in C++. It covers a wide range of topics, including sorting, searching, and hashing, which will enhance your understanding of how data is organized and manipulated in programming.
Presents a unique perspective on game design, offering a collection of lenses through which to analyze and understand games. It provides insights into the creative and technical aspects of game development, fostering a deeper appreciation for the art of game design.

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