Who Is This Book For?

This book is for anybody interested in the programming side of game development. Code samples and references to the open-source demos on the companion CD have been provided in every chapter, so if you are already familiar with C++ you will definitely walk away with a deeper understanding of these foundational topics in math & physics for programming games. However, programming experience is not necessary if you focus on the math and physics topics conceptually and then try the self-assessment questions. You can always come back and revisit the code samples after you've started an introductory course in C++. This is not a book about 3D programming per se. Rather, it's a foundational tool for the math and physics involved in 3D programming. In addition, this book is not a replacement for more-advanced volumes on 3D math—it's a stepping-stone to those volumes. It provides the foundation you will need to tackle advanced topics in realistic 3D simulation. A strong background in algebra is required for optimal success with this book. Geometry and trigonometry are both strongly recommended.