I've downloaded C# Express and VB Express this spring and it was one of the best decisions I've made this year. Programming environment is excellent and I must say that C# and managed DirectX is one of the best combinations for writing 3D games.
The best part of using MS programming tools is tons of documentation that comes with it and that is available for it. Products like Blitz3D, BMax, DBPro or IBPro just can't compare with MS Visual Studio Express offerings when it comes down to documenation.
I'll keep on buying indy development products because I like to help people that are creating them but it looks like most of my work will be done with one of the Express tools.
Oh, yes. .NET does have one great advantage over other stuff. It's so easy to write one's own language compiler, so there's really no reason not to write another BASIC like game development system using .NET and managed DX.
Barney
The best part of using MS programming tools is tons of documentation that comes with it and that is available for it. Products like Blitz3D, BMax, DBPro or IBPro just can't compare with MS Visual Studio Express offerings when it comes down to documenation.
I'll keep on buying indy development products because I like to help people that are creating them but it looks like most of my work will be done with one of the Express tools.
Oh, yes. .NET does have one great advantage over other stuff. It's so easy to write one's own language compiler, so there's really no reason not to write another BASIC like game development system using .NET and managed DX.
Barney