I've spent much of my free time, for the last few weeks, learning as much as I can about c++. My first goal was to be to make a text-based rpg. I wasn't concerned, or even very interested, in the graphics. Instead, I was focused on creating a game that had in-depth systems such as crafting.
Well now I think I have the basics down; I have the functioning framework for loot, file save/load, turn based combat, random encounters, story, crafting, etc....
From here, I am confused as to where to progress. Maybe some of you game devs can look back to your beginner days and help me (and others) with some questions.
Would it be wise to start with acsii "graphics", then move to real 2d, then move to 3d?
How much of working with graphics does one do from scratch, and how much is standard copy/paste material? I picked up a "Programming with DirectX" book, and was surprised to find that just producing an empty windows window required nearly 60 lines of code. I was able to point out a function here, and a class there. But for the most part it seemed like technical jargon far beyond my understanding. Is there some middle point, or am I supposed to just jump in using code that I don't understand?
Was C++ the wrong choice for a first language?
I feel like I have accomplished a lot in the last few weeks, going from no understanding of coding, to being able to work with basic functions, classes, and pointers etc. But I feel like working with graphics through c++/windows must be infinitely difficult. I am a graphic designer, so maybe I expected to be able to start fleshing out the game sooner than what is realistic. Is there another language that can make a concept tangible in shorter timer?
Thanks ahead of time.