What language for a compiled Flash-like interface?

[13kft]

Hey guys,
The only programming I know is some VB/ASP and Flash ActionScript (which is basically ECMA script). I want to replicate some of the stuff I have done in Flash in a faster, compiled application. I figure this is a good way to get immersed in Java, but all the talk about about C++ and C# has me wondering...

Which language would be best for desktop animated/3D interfaces? I know for 3D there is openGL for 3D in windows, but I have no idea how to take advantage of it.
My specific idea is to build a little file explorer that is in 3D with some nice animation.

I know this is ambitious for a non-programmer, but I've got the physics/cartesian plane stuff wired in Flash and want to grow a bit in the coding department...

thanks,
tim

[13kft]

>boomp<
dudes, c'mon... this is an interesting question, isn't it? hello?

[Grizzly]

It's most certainly an interesting question...a question I wish I knew the answer to.

I fear that no one here has a good answer for ya buddy.

[biosx]

Originally posted by 13kft:
Which language would be best for desktop animated/3D interfaces? I know for 3D there is openGL for 3D in windows, but I have no idea how to take advantage of it.

Actually, I think the best language for that is flash. I bet you could do it really easy in Java. However, I think the best is Flash.

As an example: If you take a look at GMax (the game level/mod editor from Discreet), the bottom toolbar, which looks all fancy-shmancy with 3D buttons and such, was all programmed in Flash.



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[13kft]

huh... I thought the Flash Player (not the browser plugin, but the executable) had issues with getting enough processor attention from the CPU. I figured that Java or C++ would allow me to "ask" for more juice from the computer. I could be smoking crack, tho. Like I said, I know very little about compiled applications.

thanks,
tim

[reklis]

Go read this, then decide which is best for your interests. If you want speed, stay away from Java for the moment. AFAIK C# is a Visual Studio .NET thing, and backward compatibility is limited to WinME, or Win2K. You're best best is to probably play with some 3D (directx, opengl, etc) API and do it in C++. You'll learn allot. It's a big step from JavaScript/ActionScript/ECMAScript, but all of us here will be here to help

Do you have an example of what you want to convert to a compiled version on the 'net? I'd like to take a look.

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main(i){putchar(341513875>>(i-1)*5&31|!!(i<6)<<6)&&main(++i);}