Thread: graphics and sound

how would you use graphics and sound. is there a header file? if so, what functions would i use and what header file is it? thanks.

-The N00b

Some here will tell you using graphics and sound is sooo difficult, and they will tell you to learn the basics of C++ before even thinking of graphics. Don't believe them! It is not sooo difficult. Short instruction:
Get (I would advise Visual) C++ (6 or better will help).
Go to the microsoft.com page and download DirectX SDK (8.1 or better will help). Be warned, this download is huge (100 MB +).
When you have DirectX SDK unzip and install it. It comes with some demo animations (won't last too long and you can program similar animations).
Restart your computer.
Start Visual C++. Start a new WIN32-Application. Add a cpp file and write #include<ddraw.h>. This is your header for graphics. The linker will need these files: dxguid.lib and ddraw.lib. You can find them in a subdirectory of your DirectX SDK. You must add them to your project if you want to use graphics in your program.
Buy a book dealing with DirectX. Read about Surfaces, there are only about ten functions you should learn by heart if you want to finish your projects in a not-ridiculous amount of time (Sure you will meet the functions ->SetCooperativeLevel and ->BltFast in your book.) Be patient when reading your book, the subject is not difficult to understand, it is only extensive.
If you have problems,though, post a precise question here. Some (not many) guys here might be able to help you out of your misery then.

I think this is enough for the beginning.

Good luck learning DirectX !