I am a total beginner. (Well I did learn a little HTML and Java programming in college, but that was 10 years ago.) I want to learn how to program software. My first goal is to make a game in XNA studios.

Which programing language do you think would be the best to start with?

Oh by the way, I am doing this just for fun.

"C" is probably the best starting point. It is one of the earliest languages and a good many other languages are derived from C. Java is one such example and it is actually a pretty good starting point as well. From C, there C++ and C# and Objective C which are all basically sub-languages I guess you could say. C++ is a pretty widely used in games from what I hear but I haven't learned it personally. Python is also pretty good to learn but I would say start with C.

^Thanks.

C is way too complicated... I hate C.

Java is best... far better IDEs and easier to learn on your own.

Get Java, Eclipse to code in (make sure you install the javadoc), hit up the endless number of tutorials out there and get crackin'.

C#, C++. JScript also a possibility for some things.

Since you want to make an XNA game, the only choice is C#.
Otherwise, any popular language will do. You can make games in any of them. Just pick one and stick with it until you make a few games or apps with it then check out a few other languages.

C#, especially if you're using XNA.


Long term, keep your options open. You have to pick the right tool for the battle, essentially...

I'd go straight in to C++. Get yourself a good book.

C , Java and VB are what I am learning in my degree atm.

Don't go straight to C++. It's a useful language, but it's terrible if you're just learning the principles of programming. If you're a complete beginner, start with Python. It's a very simple, yet powerful, language, easy to get to grips with and has a fantastic community for support.

That's how I started anyway. I don't think I would be as good with more complex languages if hadn't learned to use Python first.