I can't figure out how to take the next step...

I haven't been programming for long. Maybe 4 months since I started learning. Basics with c++, then moved to c#. I know basics like loops, iterations, variables and naming conventions. I know classes and inheritance. Overloading methods/functions. I understand the basics of scope. My problem is with unity. I love it, and I love the setup of it, but learning how to script in unity is like learning a completely different language. Like switching from c# to php. I was used to the .NET framework.
This is fine to me. I can get past this, but then I have to learn how to design games. Coding and design is so different. Looking at the unity "Learn" page, and all the different manuals and tutorials on graphics, physics, and the like, and all I'm familiar at all with his the scripting part. I like that part most. I knew I would have to encounter these other parts at some point, but seeing a detailed map on all the progress I have yet to make is really discouraging.
I completed the Roll A Ball tutorial, and I understood it for the most part. But I'm not sure where to go from here. Some of you might suggest I look into groups for a project, but I don't want to let anyone down because of my lack of skills, although I do feel like I'm learning fast(I started with unity a few days ago). I want to end up making games solo, and then maybe working with teams.
Did you guys have these same fears before you got to be what I'd consider geniuses? Do you suggest I do a certain thing to learn best? What I think would be good for me is to work on a simple game. I wanted to dabble in a game where gravity is the main force affecting the player, and you're falling and have to avoid an increasingly difficult infinite level. But I have NO conception of how to make an infinite level. Scripting wise.

Thank you in advance for the discussion. I hope I'm posting in the correct forum, I'm not trying to ask a specific question as much as I'm trying to get to know the community and have an open discussion.

 

It all starts with the will to learn, that's what you need the most... and you have that. Yes, there's a lot to learn. No, there's no quick and easy way that I know of. It takes time like anything else. The best way I have found to learn when there's tons to learn and no clear first thing to learn is pick something I think I can make and try to make it, then learn things as needed to get through. So my opinion is that you try the same.

Good luck.

 

The best advice will need to be tailored to how the individual learns best. Think about all the things you've learned in your life and what the best approach is for you. Do you learn best by books? Interactivity? Videos? Actually doing?

Once you determine your ideal form of learning and you have the desire and passion, all that it takes is time spent which will give you experience.

 

That's kind of what I was thinking. Make a game and then when I don't know something, look that specific thing up. When I learn that I can then apply it to more than just this game. The problem is I don't think I can make anything on my own yet >< lol But I will try that. Thank you

 

People learn best when given a task to accomplish. Pick a piece of your game, learn how to do it. Pick the next piece, learn how to do that, repeat.

Google "unity infinite runner", take away the ground and you have an infinite faller.

 

Until you are sucked into a floating point precision vortex!

 

In all seriousness, I think delnx's advice is very good - break it down into the components, player, level geometry, scripting, and just make one at a time. You'll learn a ton of stuff trying to complete any one of those three.

 

Thank you guys. I realize I won't learn anything from just reading. the more I try and fail the more I learn.

 

Start cloning. Pick the simplest game you can find, like Flappy Bird. Make it. Then pick another simple game and make it.

You can also start participating in the forums and on answers. Teaching others is a great way to learn.

 

Quit your job and make a game. That game must make money to support you and your family (if you're the primary breadwinner). You'll learn quick. That's pretty much what I did, and when I did it I only knew BASIC. Here I am fifteen years later, making games for a living, and still my own boss. Then again, I like to jump off cliffs without a parachute. The pressure to succeed. Your mileage may vary.

 

Try a Udemy class on coding for Unity games. Google it and then sign up for Udemy, wait a few days and a coupon will arrive with a huge discount. My son loved these.

No, I don't work for Udemy, but those classes have helped people. You have an instructor who can answer questions and you keep the class for life..so a good deal.