   Just getting started, got some questions
  Couldn't find a similar topic by searching the forums, so:Some background, I'm a second year CS undergrad. I've basically been through SICP and some Java programming. I'm looking to make a relatively complex 2d (Maybe 3d) Flash game.It would essentially be multiplayer not too dissimilar to popular facebook multi-player games like farmville, but a different genre. I'm looking towards some sort of simcity/civilization type thing, but of course this is a long way off.Essentially, with this idea in mind, where do I start? As far as established libraries and game engines, what is the legality of using them?   
  Start by making a simple game in the technology of your choice. If its Flash your interested, look at ActionScript 3 and develop a few simple games.Wrt legality of the libraries and game engines, you will have to look at the licenses of them individually. Identify which library or game engine you plan to use and then check out the license details.;Quote:Essentially, with this idea in mind, where do I start?By gaining experience. That's your biggest enemy right now in getting started. You have no bassis to attempt to even plan for such a game. You should already recognize that learning to program requires programming. By repeatedly writing programs, you develop the skills to tackle more complex programs. For example, you can build up by writing games like Pong, Tetris, a platformer clone, etc. The challenges you face in trying to build these smaller games will prepare you for tackling something significantly more complex.Quote:As far as established libraries and game engines, what is the legality of using them?Acquisition fees and licenses. You'll be most interested in what's freely available. These libraries have associated licenses, like anything really. You must comply with the license.   ;  I agree with "oler1s", you need to program simpler things first.  Try laboring towards smaller projects, like a tool or something.  In the end it could be just a windowed app (which is pretty easy in VS), but you could enforce some constraints that up the challenge.  Once you have COMPLETED some stuff, it'll definitely give you some insight on what your trying to do and what its going to take to do it.  Thinking of a premise is one thing, making it happen is another.   