Basically, I know the fundamentals of coding languages, but I wouldn't call myself "textbook proficient" in any specific one, rather "google proficient" as I know what I want to do with the code, and it doesn't take me much time to find relative code to tweak to my needs.

I got my AS in software development back in spring, during which I briefed over languages from QBASIC to visual basic, java, C++, etc...
even took a class on assembly language just to better understand everything... but coding even a simple "game of life" in that made me want to (ノಠ益ಠ)ノ彡┻━┻

I haven't don't much game wise outside of console based besides visual basic, but even then I haven't done any interactive animation... I played around with making flash videos a bit back in highscool but again, nothing interactive...

Looking to start putting some of my ideas from paper into code in the near future, mostly throwbacks to the classic 2d platformer style with a personal twist, as some of the others seem a bit out of reach at the moment. But I am not sure what platform/engine would be good to start with, as I don't want anything so overwhelming right off the start to where I won't even know where to begin, but I don't want mindless lack of customization either. Also wanting something that won't require an entire rewrite to one day market as an android/iOS application if things go as planned.
I have thought about trying to build it in gamemaker, but I am not sure if it would be worth the price, or if it would even allow the functionality of what I am trying to achieve, so figured it would be best to ask around before taking such a leap financially.

what about a html5 game?

well i was thinking of getting gamemaker studio pro if it is worthwhile @ $50, and if things get polished to a point of production then I can purchase the exports for android/iOS/HTML5..

I just don't know if gamemaker is worth starting on to get used to, or if I should start with something a bit less entry-level friendly?
I don't plan to get a job with any big game company's or anything like that, mainly looking for a side hobby and possibly potential income while I am going back to school for a separate degree. Programming classes took the joy I found in programming originally with having to make specifics without much room for creation, And made me realize it is more of a hobby and not a career endeavor (unless i happen to get to a point of being self employed through apps/games).

This post was edited by EvilCorpse on Dec 30 2012 06:45am

why dont you get familiar with game programming by yourselft, and do it without studio?
its much more fun

This post was edited by kuzdithom on Dec 30 2012 09:35am

i havent used game maker, but my friend uses it for his own personal use. my understanding is that there's almost no coding involved, but rather a way for you to use your creativity. if that's your goal, then go for it. if you want more coding involved, then i'd suggest XNA. 50$ isn't very much at all when you compare it to things like photoshop or dreamweaver. as long as you keep your hobby mindset instead of $$, i think you'll be fine.

have you researched their export to ios/android? out of the box i would not trust it unless i see thousands of people all rating it 4.5+/5. does their export generate all the source code, resources, etc so that you can modify it yourself? or does it only generate the final product? i would be pretty surprised if the average game really converts fine.

in general, a game IS largely rewritten when you change platforms. your ability to google problems is actually more useful than someone who can code in one language but can't google their problems.