Choosing The Software That Is Right For You.
So many threads on this forum have the title "Which is better Pro or classic" or " What is the difference between X and Y ".
It seems that many newcomers to this forum and darkbasic want to find the language that is right for them. So i decided I would clarify it in this thread. I aim to provide a quick guide to choosing the most appropriate software to meet your needs (whatever they might be).
Ok here we go:
Dark Basic Classic
Summary
Someone once told me that Darkbasic classic is more of a toy, it introduces you to the world of programming in a way that even total begginers can learn quickly and easily. The tutorials provided guide you through most of the different aspects of the language and the included examples show you the end results, so you dont even need to code to understand some of it (You just need reading abilities). The dark basic language can be expanded through the use of Dynamic Link Libraries (DLL's)
note: would recommend using the "dark edit" ide for this version of dark basic as the standard one is rubbish.
Good Points
A very good starting place for the aspiring programmer.
A large set of useful tutorials and examples.
Bad points
Default ide is nasty to look at and this makes the whole feel of the program wrong (Dark edit is supplied)
A lot more basic than Pro
People who should use this software
If you have never coded before I recommend starting here (although you may choose to start on pro).
New to programming
Cant afford Pro
want to make more basic games/applications.
Dark Basic Pro
Summary
Dark basic pro is much closer to a profesional language, it is even being used by comercial companies to create games and applications. If you have some experience with classic picking up pro is easier than expected. Games and applications produced with this are much more complex and advanced, however basic 2d games can also be achieved. However unless you have thousands of pounds and an expert team dont expect to create the next metal gear solid or grand theft auto. Dll's can be easier implemented than Dark bawsic Classic as you can place them into the plugins folder and use them as you would use a normal set of commands. And to top it all off db is still being updated at the time of writing this and will continue for another year or two.
Good points
A much improved ide which is much nicer to look at
Direct x 9.0 support means programs are graphically more efficient.
Pro is a lot faster than classic
Bad points
The ide is very buggy
People who should use this software
if you are new to programming you can also try this out and be quite productive. It isnt much harder than classic theres just more to learn and remember.
More experienced programmers
People who want to start an advanced project.
3D GameMaker
Summary
A click and drag apllication for creating 3D games. The 3D game maker is very basic and can only create around eight different types of game although you can mix n' match these types. You may have heard the new name for this program which was aptly re-named by me "The 3D preference selector" I have called it this to define the point that this program doesn't so much let you create a totally new and original game but it lets you set your preferences (Bad guys, weapon, bosses etc..) and it will genarate the game for you. It is possible to create your own (basic) levels and import your own media. Do not expect to get much more than that from this app.
Good points
A very quick alternative to creating games
Comes with a lot of graphics to use with the games
Bad points
Very basic games are all that can be accomplished with this software.
New name "Preference selector" means you select your preferences for a game that the software will make for you.
Easy to get bored with the results.
People who should use this software
Theorecticaly anybody can use this software but there are som situations where this program would suit you best.
Hard for cash but want to make a game anyway.
Really cant/dont want to program
Want to quickly throw together a fun and addictive game.
The First Person Shooter Creator (FPSC)
Summary
This software really is the best of both worlds, although you can only make fps games with it you can do it really well with the FPSC. This software allows you to create complex and challenging levels and place every kind of game entity within it. Once you have set out your game you can either run it with preset perameters or you can totally costomize the gameplay but writing your own scripts for it. (Scripts can be used for A.I, level entities etc...). You can import your own media and room segments and introduce many interesting physics to your game.
Note: you can only create fps' with this software nothing else. Oh and the source for the fpsc's runtime is found with dark basic pro.
Good points
Supurb quality games are created for some what little effort.
Games can be totally costomized through scripting.
Amazing physics are included with the program.
Bad points
Main menus are a little basic (No save or load game options)
Can be slightly buggy at times
People who should use this software
I would recommend this software to anybody and everybody(unless you cant afford it) it really is a great piece of software.
Follow this post to find the software that would suit you best (I recommend ticking off the bullet points that describe you best and then finding the software that has the most ticks)
I hope this came in handy to any of you that are planning on buying any of the mentioned programs.
If there is anything I have left out or anything I have got wrong please tell me. Software additions are very welcome
Cheers
BM
Our aim is to keep the loo's clean, your aim can help.
