Learn PHP Books?

[belly59]

I don't know whether this should go here but it seems like it to me.

Basically I have taught myself HTML and basic CSS from a book and have become very competent at both and am looking to branch out in PHP and eventually MySQL.

I have seen a few books on the market like "PHP for Dummies" and "Learn PHP in 24 Hours" but I want to know which one is the best and which will be the most useful to me.

I'm looking to start creating my own browser based games once I have learnt PHP so any help from you guys would be great.

Tom 

[Zeggy]

I haven't read PHP for Dummies but I do have Learn PHP in 24 hours, and it's a great book. It helped me a lot and it has great examples as well.

[bullarky]

Are there any PHP books specifically for creating games? (or at least using game code as examples)

[Zeggy]

Well, there's only one book that I know of: PHP Game Programming
It's not very useful though, according to the reviews of the book.

I'd suggest looking at a few simple game scripts, host them yourself and learn how it's put together. Make some changes, test what happens and you'll learn a lot

[Sinzygy]

I haven't read any books concerning PHP for learning it. I have read PHP Game Programming and it's something that isn't worth the time you spend reading it. You're way better off by learning game-making yourself and with trial-and-error processes.

Btw, here's a topic that deals with some programming books: http://community.bbgamezone.net/index.php/topic,430.0.html

[bullarky]

Thanks for the feedback on the PHP Game Programming book Zeggy and Sinzygy. I saw that one out there but didn't know if it was worth it - glad I didn't buy it!

I'd suggest looking at a few simple game scripts, host them yourself and learn how it's put together. Make some changes, test what happens and you'll learn a lot

That's exactly what I've done up to this point. Unfortunately, I'm a slow learner! But I'll stick with it since it seems to be the best way to go.

[Dasein Fiasco]

Suggestions:

From basic....

PHP 5 in Practice

Beginning PHP and MySQL: From Novice to Professional

Advanced PHP Programming

PHP 5 Objects, Patterns and Practice

...to advanced.

Online articles may be a great way to get a handle on tips, tricks, and syntax, but a lot of the material online, especially with PHP, is likely to instill some very bad habits, if not encourage downright insecure and wasteful behavior. Throw down the money and starting building up your bookshelf. A well organized volume can teach, well, volumes.

[bullarky]

Thanks for the suggestions Dasein! I'll check them out.

[belly59]

thanks for the suggestions guys! will start checking out my local bookstores!