using databases with C++

Well.. i know a good deal of mySQL, and i saw that mySQL has a little API that allows you to use your mySQL db in conjunction with C++.

Now, i'm wondering if i can use a db to store information for a game, like monster's stats and items and such. The problem is that i don't know if and how i can make the DB portable, so i can include with the game and not have to have the user set up mySQL on their comps in order to play.

Anyone have any experience with mySQL and C++ interactivity? I'd like to know if my db idea is at all feasible or possible.

Its not a good idea. First, setting up MySQL would be a pain on client computers. Second, MySQL is a seperate process/service. Third, relational databases like MySQL aren't easy to extend with. If you wanna add a new stat, you'll need a new query etc. If you want to add a unit-specific attribute, its not possible. Fourth, there is a reason why no one's done this before...

You got a ton of other choices:

Code:

<!-- XML: -->
<?xml version="1.0" encoding="utf-8" ?>
<race name="farm">
   <unit name="pony">
      <speed value="5" />
      <damage value="10" />
      <comment>A deadly creature with claw-like fangs.</comment>
   </unit>
   ...
</farm>

Code:

// text data file:
unit
{
   name = "pony";
   speed = 5;
   damage = 10;
   comment = "A deadly creature with claw-like fangs.";
}

Code:

binary lol:
¨Ñ¤L‹¦¨Ö=:¯º!¹}
ZUöŸ†Mé

oh ....

DUH. XML is the logical solution. I can't believe i didn't think of that.


Now.. to find a good XML parser in C++. I don't really feel like writing my own.