The GameDev.tv Unreal C++ Program: one of the best programs I've followed

You go through the program alongside a group of fellow students, which is highly motivating. You see what the others are building, run into the same problems and help each other out. And when you know everyone else is working on that week's assignment too, you don't put it off as easily.

The program is divided into 8 modules, one per week, guided by our teacher Kaan. Every module builds on the previous one, from the basics of Unreal and C++ to complete gameplay mechanics.

What makes this program so powerful is Kaan's teaching method. Instead of spoon-feeding you the answers, he gives you a toolbox:

• He shows you the end goal, so you know what you're working towards.
• He points you to the right documentation.
• He gives a practical example with about 40% of the code you need.

With that you can always get started. The rest is up to you.

The other 60% you figure out yourself. You do your own research, read the documentation and try things out. For me that's where the real learning happens.

It forces you to make a solid step-by-step plan first: what needs to happen, in what order and what do I need for it? Only then do you start building. That way you learn Unreal and C++, but mostly how to tackle a problem like a real developer: break it down, research, try and adjust.

Kaan gives you the tools, but you build the game yourself. I'm incredibly proud of the projects I've created over these 8 weeks, especially because I figured most of it out myself.

Huge thanks to Kaan for the amazing guidance! And if you're still on the fence: just do it.