I got interested in learning graphics / games programming. I saw in many forums mentioning about OpenGL.

What is OpenGL?
Have I got to buy it or is it free ware?

I did visit their site but nothing is mentioned clearly about it whether we have to buy it or simply download it.

Please clarify.

Thank you.

OpenGL is the main competitor to MS DirectX. It's reasonably open (it only needs to be licensed by hardware companies; developers are free to use it). To use it, it appears you just need to include the header files and libraries. See http://opengl.org/resources/faq/getting_started.html.

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Thanks crystalattice

Can we draw graphics using MS DirectX in C++?
If so which is better to learn? OpenGL or DirectX?
Which easier to learn quickly?

Thanks

Shrikharan

If you are serious in developing games and getting a job, learning DirectX is better. (IMHO).

But it is not at all easy, and DirectX has a long Learning curve.
Maths is the most important thing in doing games.

Anyway: My vote goes for DirectX.
Most(Well. Almost All) of the modern windows games are done using DirectX.

You can download DirectX at the Microsoft's webpage.

You can also buy a book for learning DirectX, or go through the web for tutorials.

Regards,
Paramesh.

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Thanks Paramesh

I did visit the DirectX page. However the DirectX SDK is some 200MB download and without the SDK I will not be able to do anything!
Any help?
Thanks for your prompt reply.

Regards

Shrikharan

Whether you cant download 200 MB?

Dont worry.
DirectX SDK is available in many Chip CDs or commercial CDs, and you can get a copy of those CDs from a local shop.

If you are into the college, try getting the SDK from your College Library.

Regards,
Paramesh.

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Don't walk in front of me, I may not follow.
Don't walk behind me, I may not lead.
Just walk beside me and be my friend.

IMHO, which graphics API you use depends on how you want to "market" your programs. Obviously DirectX is only useful for Windows (and Xbox) games. OpenGL is x-platform so technically it's more versatile. Most video cards have both DirectX and OpenGL support so it's really up to you.

As to which is easier to learn, you'll just have to look. Apparently OpenGL doesn't require you to have an SDK copy; all you do is include the headers and libraries. Personally, I'd try out OpenGL. If you're looking to get a job in the graphics/games area, look at the job descriptions and see which technology the companies are looking for.

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