Introduction to Java Through Game Development

Interested in learning how to program with Java? Let’s face it, the best way to learn to program is by writing programs. This can be a daunting proposition with the specter of hours of simple command line example programs hanging over your head. Fear not! Now you can learn to program in Java in a fun way by working on video games. With this book, you’ll get to work with three Java game projects and have access to the complete game code for each project, including a full Java game engine. After completing Introduction to Java through Game Development, you’ll be proficient in Java programming, having worked with the language’s fundamental aspects throughout the text, and will be ready to further your Java and game programming expertise with confidence.What You'llMaster the fundamentals of the Java programming languageUse different data structures like arrays, lists, stacks, and queuesUnderstand game programming basics including the main game loopGain experience working with three different game projects via the book’s coding challengesWork with the 2D game engine that powers the book's included games and learn to create your own new game projectsUnderstand advanced Java topics like classes, encapsulation, inheritance, and polymorphismWork with exceptions and how to use debugging techniques to trace through codeSharpen your skills with over a dozen coding challenges that test your abilities with a development task on a real game projectWho This Book Is ForThis book requires little to no programming experience to understand and benefit from the text.

Victor Brusca is an experienced software developer specializing in building cross-platform applications and APIs. He regards himself as a self-starter with a keen eye for detail, an obsessive protection of systems/data, and a desire to write well-documented, well-encapsulated code. With over 14 years' software development experience, he has been involved in game and game engine projects on J2ME, T-Mobile SideKick, WebOS, Windows Phone, Xbox 360, Android, iOS, and web platforms.