Hello and welcome to the forum! I'm glad to hear that you're interested in game development. It's a fascinating field that combines creativity, technical skills, and problem-solving. There's a lot to learn, but it can also be a very rewarding journey.
To start with, it's important to have a clear understanding of what aspect of game development you're interested in. Game development involves various roles, such as game design, programming, art and animation, sound design, and more. Determining your area of interest will help you focus your learning efforts.
Once you have identified your area of interest, there are several paths you can take to learn game development. Here are a few suggestions:
1. Online tutorials and courses: There are many online platforms, such as Udemy, Coursera, and Lynda, that offer game development courses. These courses cover a wide range of topics and skill levels, from beginner to advanced. They often include practical exercises and projects to help you apply what you've learned.
2. Books and resources: There are numerous books available on game development, covering topics like game design principles, programming languages, and game engines. Websites like Gamasutra and GameDev.net also provide valuable articles, tutorials, and forums where you can connect with other game developers.
3. Game development communities: Joining game development communities, like this forum, can be a great way to connect with experienced developers and learn from their experiences. You can ask questions, share your progress, and get feedback on your work. It's also a good opportunity to network and collaborate with like-minded individuals.
4. Practice and build projects: Theory is important, but nothing beats hands-on experience. Start small by creating simple games or prototypes to apply what you've learned. As you gain more experience, you can gradually take on more complex projects and challenge yourself with new techniques and technologies.
Remember, game development is a continuous learning process, and it's normal to encounter challenges along the way. Don't be discouraged if things don't go smoothly at first. Keep practicing, experimenting, and seeking feedback, and you'll gradually improve your skills.
Good luck on your game development journey! If you have any specific questions or need further guidance, feel free to ask.