Overview
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Build a practical foundation in C++ by creating playable games with SFML. Connect essential programming concepts with sprites, player input, game mechanics, collision systems, audio, interfaces, and real-time gameplay.
Start with variables, operators, decisions, strings, timing, loops, arrays, functions, and enumerations. Apply these concepts to animate sprites, handle input, create HUD elements, and develop core game mechanics.
Progress to object-oriented programming, collision detection, physics, views, references, sprite sheets, vertex arrays, pointers, STL, texture management, pickups, bullets, file I/O, inheritance, polymorphism, particle systems, and shaders while building Pong and zombie-shooter games.
Designed for beginner-to-intermediate C++ developers and aspiring game programmers, this specialization requires only basic computer literacy and no prior game-development experience.
By the end, you will be able to build structured C++ games with SFML, manage gameplay systems and assets, apply OOP and collision logic, and enhance games with audio, particles, shaders, and polished HUDs.
This specialization is based on Beginning C++ Game Programming, by John Horton.
Syllabus
- Course 1: Foundations of C++ Game Programming and Interactive Graphics
- Course 2: Object-Oriented Game Development with C++ and SFML
- Course 3: Advanced C++ Game Architecture and Visual Effects
Courses
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Master advanced C++ techniques for game architecture, graphics, and effects to create sophisticated and visually rich games. Explore design patterns, smart pointers, and cutting-edge visual features like particle systems and shaders. This course empowers you to build complex and maintainable game systems using advanced object-oriented programming, design patterns, and modern C++ features. You'll learn to implement inheritance, polymorphism, smart pointers, and manage game graphics, sound, and user interfaces. The course culminates with the creation of advanced visual effects, including particle systems and shaders, enabling you to deliver polished and immersive gaming experiences. By combining in-depth conceptual explanations with practical coding demonstrations, this course helps you develop advanced programming skills and apply them to real-world game development scenarios. You'll gain the expertise needed to architect, optimize, and enhance your own C++ games. This course is part three of a three-course Specialization designed to build a complete and cohesive understanding of the subject. While it offers valuable skills on its own, you'll gain the most benefit by progressing through all three courses as a structured learning journey. This course is based on Beginning C++ Game Programming, by John Horton. Packt is one of the world's most prolific publishers of cutting-edge technical content. For over two decades we've made it our mission to curate and publish the knowledge of only the very best technical experts. We focus on real-world courses that help our customers get the job done, with coverage that extends across a wide range of established and cutting-edge technical topics. If you're an individual or an organisation that embraces learning by doing, Packt is the perfect fit for you.
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Discover the essentials of C++ programming and interactive graphics by building your first playable games. Learn core programming concepts, animation, and user input while creating engaging visual experiences. This course introduces you to the fundamentals of C++ programming and game development using modern tools and libraries. You will explore variables, operators, decision-making, loops, arrays, and functions, all within the context of animating sprites and handling player input. By the end of the course, you will have built your first interactive games and gained a solid understanding of how to create dynamic, visually engaging applications. Through a blend of clear explanations, practical examples, and step-by-step guidance, this course helps you grasp foundational programming concepts while applying them to real game projects. You'll progress from basic syntax to implementing game mechanics, ensuring a smooth and engaging learning experience. This course is part one of a three-course Specialization designed to build a complete and cohesive understanding of the subject. While it offers valuable skills on its own, you'll gain the most benefit by progressing through all three courses as a structured learning journey. This course is based on Beginning C++ Game Programming, by John Horton. Packt is one of the world's most prolific publishers of cutting-edge technical content. For over two decades we've made it our mission to curate and publish the knowledge of only the very best technical experts. We focus on real-world courses that help our customers get the job done, with coverage that extends across a wide range of established and cutting-edge technical topics. If you're an individual or an organisation that embraces learning by doing, Packt is the perfect fit for you.
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Advance your C++ skills by mastering object-oriented programming and building classic games with SFML. Learn to design, structure, and manage game code using classes, collision detection, and dynamic gameplay elements. This course deepens your understanding of C++ by focusing on object-oriented programming principles and their application in game development. You'll create and refine games like Pong and a Zombie Shooter, learning about classes, collision detection, physics, and advanced graphics techniques. By the end, you'll be able to design robust game systems and manage complex codebases with confidence. The course uses a project-driven approach, guiding you through the process of building and enhancing games while introducing key programming concepts. Each topic is presented with practical examples and clear explanations, helping you connect theory to real-world game development challenges. This course is part two of a three-course Specialization designed to build a complete and cohesive understanding of the subject. While it offers valuable skills on its own, you'll gain the most benefit by progressing through all three courses as a structured learning journey. This course is based on Beginning C++ Game Programming, by John Horton. Packt is one of the world's most prolific publishers of cutting-edge technical content. For over two decades we've made it our mission to curate and publish the knowledge of only the very best technical experts. We focus on real-world courses that help our customers get the job done, with coverage that extends across a wide range of established and cutting-edge technical topics. If you're an individual or an organisation that embraces learning by doing, Packt is the perfect fit for you.
Taught by
Packt - Course Instructors