Graphics questions

Hey guys, I'm sure you get hundreds of posts like this all the time, but I could use some advice before I try learning to make video games.


1) I'm trying to pick between OpenGL and DirectX. Anything that might sway my decision one way or the other?

2)If I pick OpenGL, should I use GLSL or Nvidia CG? Which yields better results graphics wise? Which has more cross-platform capability? Which is easier?

3) If I pick OpenGL, do I learn OpenGL ES or just straight OpenGL? To be honest, my interests are more towards developing for consoles and handheld consoles rather than for PC. Do I need to learn OpenGL before OpenGL ES? How similar are they?

4) How long would you say it takes to fully learn OpenGL or DirectX? I mean really know either of them and be able to create quality work. What about HLSL, GLSL, or CG?

(Note, I'm a very very inexperienced programmer. Like a beginner, really. I've had a year with C++ and that's about it. I'm just trying to figure this out before I spend time learning something potentially useless.)

>>6
While what you're saying is true, there are helper libraries for OpenGL (GLU, GLUT, etc) that make it more DirectX-like. OpenGL being more "low level" is a pro, not a con.
Plus you're not forced to use sepples. Though I guess OP is using sepples anyway, so it's a moot point.

OP, maybe you should look into something higher level? Irrlicht and Ogre 3D are both nice engines, even for a beginner.