Intermediate Object-Oriented Programming for Unreal Games

University of Colorado System via Coursera

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/intermediate-object-oriented-programming--unreal-games

Introduction

**Course Review: Intermediate Object-Oriented Programming for Unreal Games on Coursera** If you're looking to deepen your knowledge of game development using C++ and the Unreal Engine, "Intermediate Object-Oriented Programming for Unreal Games" on Coursera is an exceptional choice. As the fourth and final installment in a comprehensive specialization, this course builds on a solid foundation and is tailored for those who have already ventured into the realms of game development and object-oriented programming. **Course Overview** This course assumes that you come equipped with the knowledge and skills obtained from the previous three courses in the specialization. If you've either completed those or have equivalent experience, you're well-prepared to unlock the full potential of this course. The syllabus covers vital concepts in object-oriented programming, focusing specifically on their application in Unreal Engine. **What You’ll Learn** The course unfolds through well-structured modules that cover crucial programming concepts: 1. **Exceptions and File I/O**: In this module, you will delve into exception handling—a method for gracefully managing runtime errors in your applications. You'll learn how to effectively throw and catch exceptions, ensuring that your games remain robust. Additionally, file input and output (I/O) are explored, allowing you to understand how data can be saved and accessed, which is fundamental in both console applications and video games. 2. **Inheritance and Polymorphism**: These two core concepts of object-oriented programming are dissected in this module. You'll learn how to use inheritance to create more complex game behaviors and how polymorphism can provide flexibility and extensibility in your code. Practical exercises will demonstrate these concepts within the context of a small Unreal project, fostering a deeper understanding. 3. **Event Handling and Menus**: Managing user interactions is pivotal in game design, and this module focuses on event-driven programming. You’ll learn how to set up events and handle user input seamlessly, allowing for a more sophisticated game flow. Additionally, the course introduces Unreal Motion Graphics (UMG) and Slate Widgets, empowering you to design intuitive menus and interfaces. 4. **Feed the Teddies**: Bringing everything together, this final module guides you through the implementation of a complete small game project titled "Feed the Teddies." Here, you'll apply the learning from previous modules and see how generic programming concepts are practically applied within the structure of a fun game, giving you the opportunity to synthesize your knowledge. **Why You Should Enroll** This course is highly recommended for aspiring game developers looking to elevate their coding skills and enhance their game design capabilities. The blend of theory and hands-on application ensures that learners can see the direct impact of their coding decisions on game functionality. **Conclusion** "Intermediate Object-Oriented Programming for Unreal Games" is a robust course that not only reinforces essential programming principles but also applies them in a context that is immediately relevant to game development. By the end of the course, you will have a solid grasp of key concepts alongside practical experience that is invaluable in building your portfolio. If you are committed to advancing your game development journey in C++ and wish to wield the Unreal Engine with greater proficiency, taking this course will undoubtedly enhance your skill set, boost your confidence, and set you on the path to developing more complex and engaging games. Happy coding!

Syllabus

Exceptions and File IO

In this module, you'll learn how exceptions are thrown when something bad happens as our program executes and how to handle those exceptions. You'll also learn about file IO, which is incredibly useful both in console apps and in Unreal games.

Inheritance and Polymorphism

In this module, you'll learn about inheritance and polymorphism, two of the most powerful features in object-oriented programming languages, including C++. You'll also see inheritance in action in a small Unreal game.

Event Handling and Menus

In this module, you'll learn how to use events and event handling in your game. Developing our games this way leads to much better object-oriented designs, where objects don't have to know about lots of other objects in the game. You'll also learn how to use Unreal Motion Graphics (UMG) and Slate Widgets to implement menus in your games.

Feed the Teddies

In this module, we'll go through the implementation details of a complete (small) game. You'll see many of the concepts we covered in this course (and previous courses in the Specialization as well) in action, and you'll see a few new things as well.