Thread: Graphic API and Win32.

I am making a Win32 program and I would like to use a graphics library that allows me to draw onto the window.

What I mean is, with SDL, it makes its own window. And OpenGL is just too much for what I am trying to do (its just plain 2d, and OGL would just be over kill as I only am using 2 colors).

I would like to use DirectX but I dont have the dough to get MSVC++.

So is there any other API's that will draw in the window, OR, is there a way to use DirectX without MSVC++.


NOTE: I notice that MSVC++ command like tools are free, could I possibly use another IDE like MinGW studio with the command line tools?

If OpenGL can draw in the window, I don't think your reasons for not using it are valid. If you're okay doing everything from the command line (development-wise - you can still make windows applications very easily), you can download the .NET SDK, and then use the System.Drawing namespaces - they're designed just for this.

Originally Posted by Vicious

And OpenGL is just too much for what I am trying to do (its just plain 2d, and OGL would just be over kill as I only am using 2 colors).

I would like to use DirectX but I dont have the dough to get MSVC++.

If you think OpenGL is over kill then DX would definately qualify as over kill as well. Both OpenGL and DX are just fine for 2D graphics, if you want something more light weight try SDL, allegro, etc... check the sticky at the top of this board for links.

you dont need MSVC++ to create directx apps