[Insomniac34]

Long story short:
-I'm a computer science student
-2 semesters each of Java and C++, 1 semester C#
-C# and VB experience on own time
-massive FS fan (obvious)

How do I even begin to help out? I won't be able to do much compared to the geniuses here, but I am sure there is something I can help out on. It would be great experience, and it would help make my favorite game even better (hopefully!).

thanks!

[MatthTheGeek]

Well, if you want to help out code-wise, the fisrt step would be to grab the source code svn and try to figure it out. Repository is svn://svn.icculus.org/fs2open/trunk/fs2_open.

The FS2 engine was originally coded in C, but FSO now uses C++. That means that most of the code is still in a C style, aka no object-oriented approach aside from parts that have been recently overhauled (the new HUD code, for example). That also mean that a good part of the code is spaghetti-class code.

That's all I can say, actual coders of the SCP can probably say more about this.

[The E]

Also, there's a topic covering all the setup stuff here.

In addition, I strongly recommend joining the #scp IRC channel on irc.esper.net. That way, you can get in touch with most coders quickly.

[Insomniac34]

Wow, thanks guys, that's exactly what I wanted! I am busy with work and school, but I will definitely read over these code libraries in my spare time. I will definitely use IRC if I have any questions/just want to see whats going on.

[karajorma]

First step is to stop assuming that the SCP coders are geniuses. We're smart but you don't need to be a highly experienced coder to help out. Determination is about 20x more important to us as it means you'll stick with it long enough to gain experience.

There are many things an inexperienced coder can do that would really help us out so it's pretty easy to go from your first day building FSO to actually making a real contribution to the project.

[chief1983]

First step is to stop assuming that the SCP coders are geniuses.

Speak for yourself

[karajorma]

I didn't say I wasn't a genius, just that you shouldn't assume everyone with an SCP badge is.