Hello JGO,
I am writing this thread today because I am wondering what people think about the following books:
[1]Developing Games in Java - David Brackeen - 2003
[2]Killer Game Programming in Java - Andrew Davison - 2005
[3]Programming Video Games for the Evil Genius - Ian Cinnamon - 2008
I purchased these three books from Amazon about 10 months ago when I decided I wanted to make video games as a profession. After I bought these books I was shocked at how much coding experience was really needed to make a video game. At that time, I set these books aside and purchased:
Head First Java - Bert Bates - 2005
It took a few months, but I completed Head First Java and learned the basics of the language. I then emptied my 401k and enrolled in a local college for computer science, where I am currently the “only guy that knows whats going on.” Now I still consider myself a mega newbie because I have no real world experience. However gaming wise, I am able to create RPG Text games with all the bells and whistles. I want to move into graphics and more advanced topics because I feel it is now time to make this transition. That being said, I am picking theses books back up in hopes that they will further my knowledge and point me in the right direction as far as game programming goes. Now back to the point of this topic.
Is anyone familiar with these books? I have read a few pages of Programming Video Games for the Evil Genius and have noticed many, many, programming errors. So I put that book down and I have been wondering about my other two game programming books (books 1 and 2). My main concern, are the concepts and code they teach deprecated? I would prefer to learn “the latest and greatest.” Can anyone suggest any books or material that may be worth purchasing?
My college has game programming classes, but those are 2nd and 3rd year classes. Because I decided to take the initiative on my own, 11 months ago, I am way past these beginning teachings of the college. I do plan on staying in school, but I don’t want to wait on them to teach me something I feel I am ready for now. Algebra in school has been the best refresher and I know I need more math in order to be truly successful with real programming.
Furthermore, I understand becoming a programming guru, takes many many many many years of experience and practice. While I am 26 I know I may not become a successful game programmer for another 10+ years. That being said, I do know what I want to do in life and it is make video games and program entertainment for the masses. I am committed to this and will do what it takes in order to achieve this goal. Part time jobs at Mc Donalds and living in “slum” apartment complex with internet is all I need. All I want is time and practice (and women <lol). I will have it one way or another. <mini rant 
Anyhow, I hoped that this thread has summed up a little about me and conveyed my questions in a way that will hopefully make the reader understand me and my intentions.
Thanks for your time,
Andrew