General Questions from a beginning modder

[Cash]

Hello

As much of my time (like the majority of my life) has been invested in gaming, I finally decided to quit complaining about the games that come out and finally create something myself.

So, I have a few general questions before I dive into my mod.

1. I know source code is written in C++, and that it was designed to be edited with Microsoft Visual Studio 2003. Is this still the recommended program to mod source in? Is their free software that could be used to mod source, and would it make any difference if I just modded with the free software?
2. I know the valve wiki on source modding is one free tool on how to make a mod. Are their any other useful beginners guides to modding in source that you would recommend?
3. If I download other mods, is their a way to access the information used in these mods to compile my own project? (credit would be given to any information)

Thanks for your time, and sorry if i posted in the wrong forum.

 

[tschumann]

I'm not sure, but I think Visual C++ 2005 is probably recommended now. You can download the express version for free and use that.

What information from mods do you mean? You usually can't see the source (unless they used Lua or some other scripting language).

 

[Cash]

I just meant the code i guess. I know some mods already have features (like ironsites and weapon sway) that I could probably use the code from... but i guess if its already been compiled thiers no way of checking the source.

Thanks for the advice though

 

[tschumann]

Check out the Valve Developer Community: http://developer.valvesoftware.com/wiki/Main_Page
There are a lot of useful tutorials there, including an ironsights tutorial: http://developer.valvesoftware.com/wiki/Ironsights

 

[Ennui]

There are a few mods who have released their source materials after dying in progress (like Forsaken), or after release (Zombie Master), you could poke around in their files to help learn. You probably can't include stuff from these in your mod without express permission. In addition to the VDC wiki there are a lot of resources for modding, spread out all over the internet. In terms of coding the VDC is the best place to look, but The Wavelength has some information as well (mostly dated). For level design theory, Hammer instruction, and texturing tutorials, Interlopers.net is the best resource. Really it takes a ton of time and commitment to learn to mod and the best way to do it is experiment yourself and build your skills. A good forum is a necessity to ask for help when you get stuck.