opengl 2.1 vs 3.2 ???

[nasty_wolverine]

I am making a shmup. right now it framework is using SDL for cross platform functions (switching fullscreen mode looses opengl context but a small drawback considering the other benefits) and opengl using VAO for graphics and opengl's fixed function pipeline.

Was just wondering what other developers here use and should switch over to VBO's and programmable graphics pipeline... i.e. 3.2 core profile

(getting around 200-300 FPS uncapped with about 200 objects on screen all testing collision)

[Lord Satori]

I have no idea, but I'd guess that updates are always good, unless there are compatability issues or something. Really, I just wanted to say how awesome your avatar is.

[nasty_wolverine]

haha, thanks... its the laughing man logo from Ghost in the Shell.... but i m sure you already know...

[BPzeBanshee]

Laughing Man FTW.

With OpenGL I've heard the newer versions do restrict compatibility somewhat, mainly for older computers with hardware that won't support it. I think Minecraft uses something quite old like 1.5 or something, for example.

That being said actual coding of OpenGL is beyond me (I'm struggling in Flash as it is) so take this with a grain of salt. A bit of Google-fu might come in handy to help you make an informed decision.

[nasty_wolverine]

did alot of google foo

2.x and below is supported on almost any desktop and gpu these days, even 10 year old have support for or atleast 1.x (which is 2.x less some features i can live without) which is similar to opengl es 1.1 for mobile platform, (batch transfer of draw data from client side to gpu)

3.x is compatible with nvidia geforce 8 series and above and similar to opengl es 2.0, where all the fanciness begins, gpu side data storage with flexible graphics pipeline, great performance but harder to code

4.x is for newer cards, my card doesnt support it so i cant write in it. supposed to be almost compatible with opengl es 3.0 less a few instruction.

it actually depends on the target market minimum hardware requirement i guess.
and that will bring me to question how many here shmups forum have opengl 3.x capable hardware??
should i make a new thread for it with a poll???

[antime]

OpenGL 3.2 is only available on OS X 10.7 and above, if that is a concern.

[nasty_wolverine]

after a little more research decided to stick to 2.1 till sdl and ftgl start to support 3.x and above context... once i have done a little more on the game i ll put a demo up soon