Help in game making

[countconkula]

I need help with a game I am making...
Called Saving Private Shroom...it's my first one, but I want to make it decent on my first try, although I doubt it's possible...soo...
1. What program should I use to make games?
2. If I can't afford the new program right away (I went with gamemaker cuz its free) does anyone know how to program games?! I really need help with that part, me and MarioManiac can't do that...

[Yoshimaster]

You could download the demo version of TGF. That one's fairly easy to learn, and I don't think it's very expensive (go to http://www.clickteam.com to check that stuff and to download the demo).

If you want the game to be decent, make sure you learn the basics of the program you're using before starting a project, and it wouldn't hurt to download a few tutorials to learn some useful tricks.

[DJ Yoshiman]

Look at the help file and read it first, so you get a basic understanding of the program's surroundings, and what it can do. Then, create a whole bunch of tests with different tutorials so that you know how everything works.


But trust me, it's almost near impossible to make a great game your first game, ESPECIALLY when you have no prior programming knowledge.

[Guinea]

How to become a great programmer:
(Just follow the steps, you don't need to do all steps, but you should not leave one out!)

Step 1. Get a good program such as Game Maker, TGF or the RPG Maker (for RPGs only!).
Step 2. Do some tutorials to get to know the program.
Step 3. Experiment with the program and make a small mini-game with no real goal, just to show yourself what you can do.
Step 4. Make a very easy-to-make first game. Don't try to be too complex. Maybe just take a tutorial as a base (which does NOT mean EDIT the tutorial!)
Step 5. Get deeper into the programming. Try to get source codes and other stuff and learn from them. In GM learn GML and register your version. In other programs also buy expansions.
Step 6. Think about stuff and try it out. Don't tell people you're making a new game, this is just experimenting. You can however show off your work. You need to get the feeling for the program.
Step 7. Start making a good game.
Step 8. Perfectionize your skills and try other programs or even C++ or something like this.