next step i should take

i been studying c++ for a minute and i purchased a couple books on making games then i Purchased OpenGl Programming guide 7 edition,the thing is after I'm fully done with 7 edition my plan is to go over my basic c++ how to books. at this point I've learned game building programs and software for gamebuilding 3d animation are more expensive then I thought. i have these basic options right know 1) go enroll in NYC film school in 3d animation which will give me direct link in the business for cost $5000.00 with a dvd reel after completion of the program or the 2nd) just buy my Maya programing soft ware for $3034.00 so i'm asking how i get affordable gaming and animation programing basically knowing which is the best choice, yet how would professional handle it knowing i,m in 2nd year of gaining knowledge about c++.
You don't need any of those programs for game programming. You might need them for game making. It's a very big difference. The people who use them are not programmers. They're 3D animators, which is much closer to animation than to programming.
Basically, what I'm trying to say is, if you do a course on them, it won't be a programming course.

On a different subject, are you sure it's a good idea to be evading your ban?
Blender3D is a great alternative to Maya. It's written in C++ and Python (also its scripting language). It's VERY powerful but has a rather steep learning curve. It even includes its own game engine.

All are free open-source software. Learn all three and you'll be way ahead of the "game".

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blender_(software)
I wouldn't waste your time with Blender. It is an excellent tool, but the fact is it's not used in the game industry and will not add any value to your resume. gratstone, building on what helios said, the real question is what path are you looking to go down? There are 3 positions that come to mind when reading your post:

1. Engine Programmer: Responsible for programming in C, C++, or both, the core logic of the game engine subsystems. This will probably require some knowledge of whatever API is being used.

2. 3d Programmer: Responsible for programming in C, C++, or both, the core logic of the game engine subsystems, typically the rendering systems and is required to have advanced mathematic skills, a deep understanding of 3d graphics principles, OpenGL or DirectX, and an understanding of Maya or 3ds Max asset formats. The 3d programmer may also be responsible for extending Maya or 3ds Max applications. A significant portion of a development team may be 3d programmers.

3. 3d Animator: Responsible for 3d game assets, animation, etc... Typically will be required to have a strong understanding of the associated scripting language of the tool. Maya = MELScript, 3dsMax = MaxScript. The 3d animator will also need excellent artist skills both hand drawn and CG.

As far as the cost of Maya, if you are a student you can purchase it at a significantly reduced rate. There is also a free learning edition available.

gratstone wrote:
i been studying c++ for a minute and i purchased a couple books on making games then i Purchased OpenGl Programming guide 7 edition,the thing is after I'm fully done with 7 edition my plan is to go over my basic c++ how to books.


Your approach is backwards and won't work. You need a solid mastery of C/C++ before even looking at OpenGL. Start with your C++ books and when you have exhausted your learning materials and can develop a decent game subsystem, then move on to OpenGL. I would also recommend you learn SDL prior to OpenGL. It is much easier to move into 3d once you have 2d under your belt.
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