Getting started with XNA games programming

You probably already know that software is a pain sometimes and so we put this page here to make sure your computer is fully prepared to accept our products before you actually try to run them.
If you are happy that your computer is up to date and needs none of the requirements listed below then you are ready to go.

Please note : if you are not logged in the link below will ask you to do so before allowing you to proceed any further. Since all our projects are run by and for the use of community members at this time non members are encouraged to sign up if they wish to use our resources.

Note : sorry if these links don't work, they are straight off microsoft and may have changed, contact us if you need more advice.

DirectX 9.0c - Link

The february release is what we use so you should too. DirectX is Microsoft's answer to a 3d games platform having this means your computer will draw things in a whole new way to what it has in the past.

The XNA Framework - Link

XNA is essentially an extension to DirectX that enables us to code powerfull applications with much less effort than was needed in the past, it makes sense because changes / improvements can be done very quickly and XNA knows how to use DirectX better than we do ;)

The .NET Framework - Link

Just like java applications, new applications written using the .NET framework as a base will need the correct runtime environment. A runtime environment sets the computer in to a sort of prepared mode in which in will run the programs you ask it to in a more efficient manner (hopefully). XNA and DirectX are both key components for using 3d applicaitons in particular but .NET is their base as well as providing a base for other things too.

Additional Requirements : (Developers only)

Visual C# Express - Link

To develop anyhting in C# you would certainly need visual studio. The Express versions of Microsofts Visual Studio Suite of development tools make up our window in to development with C#.

XNA Game Studio Express - Link

Game Studio adds the XNA framework to the existing Visual Studio installation and integrates them to allow gaming projects to be created. It's an enxtension of the existing environment and the ideal place for you start getting involved with ccoder and the XNAGaming project.

DirectX 9 SDK (feb edition) - Link

Community life is what this is all about and the SDK packages act as your own personal window in to the paths chosen by the development team at microsoft as well as access to some examples of what could be done with XNA

Project source code

All this talk and preparation and for what ... this selection of files consists of the entire project however project managers may limit what each member has access to. Any questions at all simply email either the project manager or contact one of the admin team. More information on the team can be found in our forum here.

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