A gentle introduction to game programming on the Windows platform for the complete beginner. Presents the art and science of game programming in fun, easy-to-understand terms using recognized game styles. Reader will build several fully-functional games as well as a game engine to use in future development projects. A CD with the book provides the tools, code, and graphics necessary to complete all exercises. Sams Teach Yourself Game Programming in 24 Hours demystifies game programming by providing clear, practical lessons using C/C++, the industry standard in game programming. The book focuses on the Windows API to construct games for the Windows platform and discusses game theory, including double-buffered graphics, sprite animation, and digitized sound effects and music. A fully functional game engine provides readers with the ability to create their own future games. Michael Morrison is a writer and developer with extensive experience in game development. He authored the first book on game programming for Windows, a Java Internet programming game book, and other topics ranging from Java to MFC programming. Currently, Michael develops PocketPC games for his new company, Stalefish Labs. Some of his other titles include: Sams Teach Yourself XML in 24 Hours, Second Edition, ISBN 0672322137, Sams, 12/01, and Sams Teach Yourself Wireless Java Programming with J2ME, ISBN 0672321424, Sams, 6/01.