Pick an api.

OpenGL is easier to deal with.

DirectX is more complete and more useful should you ever want to move to being a professional (wouldn't that be nice?).

From there, there are great tutorials for both.

Visual C++ 6.0.. openGL and a sample framework...
Check out www.tokamakphysics.com too, their samples are openGL and then ya got physics for free!

also tools wize for 3d games on a budg...

MilkShape is a cheap animation/export tool for getting 3d content into your app...
www.swissquake.ch/chumbalum-soft/
Can import 3ds,OBJ and a bload of other formats, AND you can import models from alot of existing games.
They also have a OpenGL viewer/animation player shell for download, that loads thier text output format (you have to add textures yourself, its wireframe)
www.swissquake.ch/chumbalum...Viewer.zip

Blender is a cool free modeller...
www.blender3d.org/Download/

For sound...
www.fmod.org/
cross platform 3d audio, w full HW/SW implementations...

Message me if ya got any questions...

You have to think realistically about your goals. If you intend to go pro or want a common base with others on PCs, Visual Studio/C++ is it, period. It's not a matter of liking it or any of it's drawbacks. If you don't care or can't afford it there are few alternatives. Download CygWin and get the GCC (Gnu C++) compiler. I also recall hearing Borland released their compiler for free or maybe it was Watcom. I don't use either anymore so couldn't tell you. But they will each have their quirks. Beware of discounted student editions until you have read ALL the differences, in many cases there is none other times it's crippling.

If you're not familiar with 3D programming, wait until you have the basics. This means putting up a screen, handling input from the user and moving an object or two on the screen and have them interact. Add a sound effect for extra credit. While it sounds simple, there's just a lot of setup that is downright intimidating the first time. There are bound to be books on starting off with DirectX. But get a little knowledge under your belt before you go shopping.

Avoid using anyone else's code library, you won't learn anything that way and you'll be too entrenched in it to find out it can't handle your needs until it's too late. Many authors supply a graphics engine in their books so they don't have to explain a lot of the essential and basic setup. That's because it's tedious and there are a lot of variations that to cover it all is a nightmare.

Now, if you don't care that much and don't really care to take it seriously, by all means get whoever's free graphics and sound engines. You can even use something like Delphi or C++ Builder to jump start the basics. Use resources like sourceforge.net and gamasutra.com for samples and guides.

Game programming is some of the toughest coding you can do. It takes all other forms and requires you to make it fast, functional and fun.

Hypno-Toad