Learning Java by Building Android Games

by John Horton

Android is the fastest growing operating system (OS) with one of the largest installed bases of any mobile OS. Android uses one of the most popular programming languages, Java, as the primary language for building apps of all types. So, you should first obtain a solid grasp of the Java language and its foundation APIs to improve the chances of succeeding as an Android app developer. This book will show you how to get your Android development environment set up and you will soon have your first working game. The difficulty level grows steadily with the introduction of key Java topics such as loops, methods, and OOP. You'll then use them in the development of games. You will learn how to build a math test game, a Simon-like memory game, a retro pong-style game, and for the grand finale, a Snake-style, retro arcade game with real Google Play leaderboards and achievements. The book has a hands-on approach and is packed with screenshots. John Horton is a technology enthusiast based in UK. When he is not writing apps, books, or blog articles for Game Code School, he can usually be found playing computer games or indulging in a Nerf war.

392 pages, Paperback

First published January 29, 2015

Reviews

[Loren · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is excellent for getting acquainted with java and making android games. It's only downfall is that there are just so many typos in it.

[Raja Biswas · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is the best place to start your android development and game development journey together.. This book doesn't assume you to know anything about java or android. It starts from complete scratch teaching you the basics of Java and then moving on to android. I love books which teach by actually doing some projects and this book is those kind of books. It teaches you java and android and on the way shows you how to build 3 fun games. The author also explains, why learning programming by creating games is very helpful.

Android studio is used in this book as the java and android IDE. I love the way the author starts with basics of java and then explains object oriented programming concepts on the way. Each chapter shows a new feature of Java or Android or both and then applies them in real code. By the time you finish this book, you will have a very good idea about java, android and game development. Moreover you will have two Retro android games created by yourself.

Finally I would recommend anyone who wants to start is journey in android development/ game development to start with this book.