Learning to code?

I’m seeking a cheap and effective means of learning how to work on the Source Engine’s C++ code, possibly to do modifications to npc_combine_s states, or more rote things like fixes to support more dynamic lights or adding CSS style bullet penetration/the SLAM mine from HL2DM to HL2. I have basically zero knowledge in programming, but I have worked with Source I/O in maps for many years, which my mate says is effectively a visual representation of coding. Where would be a good place to start?

I don’t have much experience with working with Source, but for C++ the bar-none IDE is MS’ Visual Studio, it doesn’t mean you can’t use other IDEs, Notepad++ can work too. Provided you have it set up correctly. If I were you I’d still learn Visual Studio, especially if you want to go into the gaming industry, its pretty much the industry standard there.

https://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/magazine/mt745094.aspx
https://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/60k1461a.aspx

^ Use those. They’re invaluable.

That’s about all I can say. If someone wants to explain further about working with source, I’ll turn it over.

Founded in 2004, Leakfree.org became one of the first online communities dedicated to Valve’s Source engine development. It is more famously known for the formation of Black Mesa: Source under the 'Leakfree Modification Team' handle in September 2004.