C++ or C#

[hippo24]

Moving from java, which would be the most beneficial computer language to learn.
Just in general, what would be the most helpful overall?

 

[D_987]

Neither, learn basic C and then learn both extensions - don't try to focus on one. Most AAA games are programmed in C++, whilst indie efforts, such as that created in XNA, are C#.

 

[j0z]

C++ is pretty standard language for most programming. If you learn C++, then it should be a pretty easy to make the transition from C++ to C# if you need to.

Most games are also written in C++, except for some of the smaller indie titles (written in C#)

 

[hippo24]

OK, so c++ is the standard, and learn basic C first if available.

C# is a tailored version for games?

 

[Starnerf]

C# was written to be a universal language, sort of an evolution of Java or C++. It's not game-oriented, but it's used in the XNA Framework which makes it a common choice for aspiring game designers. Or at least that's my understanding. I usually use C++.

 

[Alex_P]

I think you'll learn more from C++.

Java and C# are rather similar. They're both designed primarily for a certain kind of corporate environment. If you go from Java to C#, you'll spend most of your time picking up the .NET framework. The syntax will be different but you'll be doing the same thing in the same ways. (Don't get me wrong: those things are important and valuable -- you just don't want to pigeonhole yourself.)

I think that, as a novice, you'll benefit more from something less similar to Java. C++, C, or a scripting language could all fit the bill.

-- Alex

 

[hippo24]

Alright thanks, ill aspire to learn C++

 

[cleverlymadeup]

if you want to do some real programming, then learn C or C++. C# is only really used by m$ and the .NET stuff, so you need the .NET library installed for it to work and it's not portable in the least