I have read forum posts for .. Hm, three weeks now?? I never registered and it was good thing I didn't before now.. Why?
I'd run into a problem, then want a quick answer. So I'd jump into the forum wishing I could post the problem, instead, because I'm too lazy to register (my n00b skills are l33t), I kept searching. I actually would go through at least 10 topics, then finding an answer, or getting lost in a topic that seemed interesting, but off subject of my issue. Of course, I always found an answer, without having to post a single message.
On the other hand, some people do not want to dig through forums to get answers, they wanna know and they wanna know now. I did too. But, some people do not catch on to the patients and stamina you must have to not only solve a problem using info gained through forums, but also to code games, demos and what not - even with a vast knowledge of what you're doing. it takes time, patience, and dedication to what you're doing to get it done.
I see alot of people asking to compare libraries: 3D Engines, Audo libs, physics engines (BTW: Eternl Knight, I've seem your posts with Timmy the Troll
isn't there an ignore/mute or something similar?) I would have too, if I had bothered to register to post. But, because I didn't, I read through many different engine forums, many with things I wanted like networking, sound, and so on. But I downloaded the engines I found promising. Some where outrageously hyped, and some were just lacking, or too complex for my l33t n00b skillz.
The point is, I did it myself. I found out what I could use, what works for me. This is what is tearing down communities, the lack of self-confidence in making worthwhile decisions. But I'll let you know now, downloading some sdk doesn't mean you're marrying it for life, you can
ALWAYS drop it and find another one.
I mostly just want the new guys to know, I'm there with you. But you must do it for yourself - These guys WILL help you, but you must put forth the effort to teach yourself right from wrong and to use your opinion - because ultimately you will settle on your own opinion anyway.
Just take it easy. Honestly search and read every post. I know, it takes time, it's crappy - I hate it too. But you will get into it, and learn to enjoy it, because it is good for you. It's not like a microwaved happy meal for $4 of hormone injected beef - This is knowledge that will gain you movement through your field of study.
I wont say Irrlicht is the greatest engine myself, but have I seen one (or more specific, used one) that is more worth my time?
Hell no.
My only hope is I can find libs to compliment Irrlicht (sound..) that are as understandable as Irrlicht. (Please, do not tell me about any sound libs, I am looking for myself.)
Again, once more, new guys need to know to be patient and search search search search search, and when they can't find the answer, search again - you will find it. I promise you.
Having guest accounts off helped me to get off my duff and actually look for answers. Now I know I am serious about what I'm doing. It was a good idea to take them off, from a n00b point of view, so kudos.
Gah, see. All I came here to do was read about Newton and now I'm posting a novel about guest users and my history with forums/learning.
Lousy forums, always pulling me in and making me forget why I'm here.
I love the engine btw.