I've been working on a relatively large game-related project for quite a while using the unbelievably ancient Borland C/C++ 3.1 compiler for several months. The compiler works well and I've even downloaded enough library files got it to work with 640x480x256 graphics and (to some extent) SoundBlaster-type audio.
However, the problem remains that it's old and extremely crash-prone (ANY memory-related screw up will necessitate a reboot,) plus the graphics are slightly slower than I'd like. And it's DOS, so it can't be run in a Windows window and can only display an extremely limited amount of code at one time.
So, I'd like to download a new one. The only requirements are that it is (1) free, (2) support instantaneous keyboard input such as a while loop with kbhit(), (3) be capable of fast 640x480x256 graphics, and (4) compatible with SB audio, even if additional code is required (such as what I already have). Nonsusceptibility to crashing the system is also a major plus (As part of an internship I programmed on a Unix machine all summer, and didn't manage to crash it once. I don't expect this kind of performance in Windows, but anything better than what I already have would be nice!)
I see there are loads of them linked to from this site, but I'm not sure how many fulfill these requirements and of those that do, which is best for my purpose. So, if anyone would be kind enough to dispense their top recommendation(s), it would be most appreciated!
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Also, let me add that if (for example) Microsoft Visual C++ were far enough above the others, I'd be willing to buy it. Same with CodeWarrior, and other non-free compilers. But I've used these in the past, and wasn't too impressed - but I didn't know anywhere near as much about programming then as I do now.