Greetings all.
I have a question for some of the programmers/developers out there.

But a little background first. I am currently a computer tech that is looking to expand my abilities and skills by getting into some programming. I have been trying to get into some classes but those only do so much. I don't really have an opportunity to do much at work, since most of the work going on is through other groups and often way above my skills and ability at this point. And I am not very good at making up projects that would push my skills while at home.

Between a couple classes I have been able to get, and a few self-study books, I have learn the basics of Java and C#. And I know a little HTML and XML, mostly as troubleshooting skills.

In short, I need experience and practice at programming. So the question comes in two parts.

First, would doing some game programming on my own help me out? I would think that pretty much any experience in programming would be helpful to some extent, and since I have an interest in games, I figure creating a couple of my own would be a good way to get some of that practice. Or am I off base and the mechanics of game programming is different enough that it would serve me little practical use in other areas?

Second, can you recommend some good resources, either on-line or in books that I can use to help get me going? Like I mentioned above, I have some knowledge in Java and C# and would like to try and expand in those areas since those are the focus of current and future programming efforts at my place of work, perferably C#.

Thanks a lot for any help or direction that folks can give me.

Jarod Silverstar