Hello!

First I'd like to apologize if there is a forum section for newbs =$

I was wondering if any pro's out there could recommend me a starting point.

I want to design video games for a career. I understand actually making games is step 749, and I'm only on step 1. I've been searching on the internet for a few days on the proper steps, however I am tremendously overwhelmed by all of the resources.

I have NO previous knowledge of any programming langauge.

Could you recommend the following please:
-Compiler
-IDE(If Visual is not good for beginners)
-Helpful books

Thank you for any input, and again I apologize if this in the wrong section!

-Rob