Chasing My Dream: To Be A Flash Games Programmer
Ah… The world of Math, Physics, Artificial Intelligence. 
I’ve long been excited with these topics since my polytechnic days because these are the stuff which makes programming interesting. Lines and lines of codes which inject life to an application, especially so when you think in the line of making games. What makes a ball bounce or a character jump? How do enemies think? How do creatures know the safest path to take or the path to attack your character? I can go on. 
To pursue this field, I had decided to resign from my job two months ago. Many had provided advice that now may not be the best time to do so, considering the economy downturn and the higher rate of unemployment. However, I had God’s peace with me and hence took the leap of faith. Although I have no idea how this will pan out, I’m happy now to be pursuing my passion and first love with programming; about making things happen, interact, move, and capturing people’s hearts and attention with games.
In that light, I’ll also be sharing my findings and research regarding applied math, physics, artificial intelligence and games creation in the months ahead. It is a long road to undertake, but I know I’ll be enjoying every aspect of it. Ultimately, satisfying passion is what makes a person happy, don’t you think? 
Call it perfect timing or pure coincidence that it is at this time that FFDMag released their issue of “Flash Games Programmer.” *whoohoo~* It is again packed full of goodness and I can’t wait to begin reading it now that I have more time in my schedule.
On another note, do follow @flashandflexmag if you’re on twitter for their latest news and promos.
Hey there Lionel, all the best in this path you are taking. I do remember indeed how eager you were to get stuff moving around and interacting on the screen. It’s great to see the passion didn’t die, but grew instead.
One thing I didn’t get from your post: You resigned to study this field on your own? Or did you get another job in the game industry? Or are you now freelancing to support your passion?
BTW, will you/have you picked up haxe? Motion-twin (http://www.motion-twin.com/) is very successful using it in France for Flash-based game projects.
Tough decision to quit at this moment. But I guess designing for games are more challenging and interesting. Much more to learn about. Good luck and keep it up!
Good luck in your new direction. There’s lots of cool stuff to be made, if you find the right companies to work with.
A word to the wise though: stay well away from working with Ganz… they go through more Flash game designers than McDonalds does burger-flippers.
@Tim
Yea the passion definitely grew and it was something that I long wanted to do. And yup, I resigned to self study this field. Got a couple of really good books so had set aside time until the end of this year before considering my next step. Am freelancing at the moment. 
Thanks!
Heard of haXe before but never used it yet. Will check it out now that you mentioned it.
@Chenfu
Thanks! Haven’t heard from you for a very long time! Hope all’s well with you!
@Anonymous
ooo~ thanks for the headsup~
I would like to have a flash game programmed for the sandwich shop that I run. I have some solid ideas but I am clueless when it comes to programming. Gourmet Grill is located on Marine Corps Base Camp LeJeune, in Jacksonville, NC. We will be able to offer monetary compensation, however we are unable to afford a firm to handle our request. If you are interested in hearing my ideas please contact me.
John Noto
John@gourmetgrillnc.com
Thank You