This updated bestseller provides an introduction to programming interactive computer graphics, with an emphasis on game development using DirectX 12. The book is divided into three main parts: basic mathematical tools, fundamental tasks in Direct3D, and techniques and special effects. It shows how to use new Direct12 features such as command lists, pipeline state objects, descriptor heaps and tables, and explicit resource management to reduce CPU overhead and increase scalability across multiple CPU cores. The book covers modern special effects and techniques such as hardware tessellation, writing compute shaders, ambient occlusion, reflections, normal and displacement mapping, shadow rendering, and character animation. Includes a companion DVD with code and figures. eBook Customers: Companion files are available for downloading with order number/proof of purchase by writing to the publisher at [email protected]. Features: Provides an introduction to programming interactive computer graphics, with an emphasis on game development using DirectX 12 Uses new Direct3D 12 features to reduce CPU overhead and take advantage of multiple CPU cores Contains detailed explanations of popular real-time game effects Includes a DVD with source code and all the images (including 4-color) from the book Learn advance rendering techniques such as ambient occlusion, real-time reflections, normal and displacement mapping, shadow rendering, programming the geometry shader, and character animation Covers a mathematics review and 3D rendering fundamentals such as lighting, texturing, blending and stenciling Use the end-of-chapter exercises to test understanding and provide experience with DirectX 12

Foundations of Mathematics offers the university student or interested reader a unique reference book by covering the basics of algebra, trigonometry, geometry, and calculus. There are many instances in the book to demonstrate the interplay and interconnectedness of these topics. The book presents definitions and examples throughout for clear, easy learning. Numerous exercises are included at the ends of the chapters, and readers are encouraged to complete all of them as an essential part of working through the book. It offers a unique experience for readers to understand different areas of mathematics in one clear, concise text. Instructors' resources are available upon adoption. Features: Covers the basics of algebra, trigonometry, geometry, and calculus Includes all of the mathematics needed to learn calculus Demonstrates the interplay and interconnectedness of these topics Uses numerous examples and exercises to reinforce concepts

American Commander "Mac" MacTavish and his international team of scientists and engineers are wrapping up an eighteen-month mission at Mars Base. Without warning, all communication with Earth is mysteriously lost. Mac's egotistical science chief discovers that a massive solar flare has impacted Earth, causing catastrophic damage and most likely political and social upheaval. Unsure if it is safe to return home, Mac decides to wait for the arrival of the Mars 3 spacecraft and the relief crew already en route from Earth. After several weeks with no communication, Mars 3 lands nearby, showing no signs of life. Expecting a grisly scene, Mac enters the lifeless lander, but he is stunned and horrified by what he discovers. Are Mac and his crew the sole survivors of a galactic solar catastrophe or something more sinister? Now it is up to him to discover the truth in the midst of this Red Storm.