Hello, I'm new to coding, but I really want to start learning so I can program basic games. Can anyone recommend a book or set of projects for somebody very new to using Microsoft Visual C++ 2008 Express Edition? I know there are a lot of books that come with a compiler, but I'm thinking the code they give might work or compile differently (I've never liked CodeBlocks anyway, and it doesn't like my computer :P ). I've also been told it is better to use a mainstream program as you can get boilerplate code and game engines specificity made for it. Is this true?

I would really like to do small projects rather than read through huge chunks of dry text - I've tried that and I swear they write it in the most obtuse way possible. Just reading about something doesn't help me, I have to be doing the things they are telling me about as they are telling me. :P

Can anyone help me get started with a really simple game-making tutorial that takes you through every step (DIY noughts and crosses or something)?