Learn Modern OpenGL Programming by Steve Jones (Game Institute)

This course is your gateway to modern OpenGL programming, shedding light on its evolution and emphasizing the advantages of the programmable rendering pipeline over the outdated fixed function pipeline. Unlike many resources focusing solely on outdated OpenGL versions, we’re here to equip you with the faster, more efficient, and flexible modern OpenGL API.

Starting from scratch, we’ll guide you through setting up OpenGL in a window using the GLFW library. From there, we’ll dive into the fundamentals of rendering polygons by managing buffers of data sent to the graphics card and employing shaders through the GLSL shading language. We’ll explore texture mapping and create a virtual camera controlled by keyboard and mouse inputs for scene navigation.

Once the basics are solid, we’ll progress to more intricate tasks, like loading 3D models and implementing advanced lighting techniques. By the course’s conclusion, you’ll have a thorough understanding of setting up and rendering in 3D with modern OpenGL. Every lesson builds upon reusable C++ and OpenGL code, creating a foundational framework ideal for building your game engine.

Throughout each lesson, we start from a blank project, coding step by step, ensuring an incremental learning curve. Whether you’re a newcomer to OpenGL or have no prior experience, this course is designed to be accessible and comprehensible, guiding you through each concept with clear explanations.

Included with the course are all the necessary materials—source code, pre-built third-party libraries, and Visual Studio solutions for each lesson—making the learning process seamless and practical. Whether you’re aspiring to create your game engine or delve into modern OpenGL programming, this course offers a comprehensive, hands-on approach to guide you through every stage.