Windows User, getting ready to setup a Mac and going Pro as well

TheGabfather

Hi guys!
I've been playing with the Windows Beta for more than a month now and I already have 2 games almost ready for launch. However, I really need the 0.9.93 list of functionality (e.g. writable tables, especially) to really complete them. I've been waiting for an update with the Windows Beta but realized I'm wasting time just waiting, so I got myself a Macbook Air (well, it's on its way) with the following specs:
64GB SSD, OS X Lion 10.7.4, 1.6GHz Intel Core i5, 2GB DDR3, Intel HD Graphics 3000 288MB
I reckon GameSalad would run just fine with this rig?

I'm really new to the Mac world, so I did some research regarding Xcode. Can anyone clarify this, but I would have to install Xcode.app (roughly 4.5GBs), and then Xcode and Related Developer Tools and Libraries (for a 10GBs or so), for GameSalad development right? Or are there some things that I'll be fine not including in the installation? The Air will only have 64GBs

Now onto GameSalad Pro. I know for the Apple Developer ID/Key I can use it with multiple systems, but for GameSalad when I go Pro will I need to register a certain machine for it? Or will it be tied to my GS Account meaning that I can use it with any of my computers (Windows & Mac) so long as I log into my account when using the Creator? I use a Windows laptop when I'm in the university because all my computer science subjects require it, but I would want to work on my GS projects during break times - but I wouldn't want to be bringing 2 laptops with me

Right now these are the only things that I can think of, but if anyone can bring up some important points that might be helpful for my case (just starting up with Mac + GS), thanks a lot I would really appreciate that!

tenrdrmer

Pro is on what ever machine your logged into. It's not stuck to One machine.

As far as Xcode you need to install all of Xcode. I personally would have gone for more HD space but those airs are pretty expensive so I understand cutting it short.

And yes that air will run GS fine I would consider a ram upgrade soon but the SSD really helps things out.

Now the bad news. Currently you cannot take a project from the Mac back to windows. So you will still have to wait for a windows update to go back and forth between your machines

JoVe

I think it would run fine on that Macbook. Yes, you need all that files for publishing, as you don't have space enough you can use a hard disk. For $299 you can become GS pro and for $99 you can become a Apple developer. Here is how you must publish apps for iOS: http://cookbook.gamesalad.com/tutorials/3/parts/12 As you want to use one laptop you can use Splashtop, as your macbook is on with streamer installed and you have internet on your windows pc and the app, you can access your mac. As you have more questions? Pm me.

rhinokey

good luck with getting your games created with windows to work on the mac. thats not a sure thing by a long ways.

i recently did the same but i chose for a mac mini,

TheGabfather

Thanks for the heads up @rhinokey !
I guess it's a good thing that the projects I currently have are simple puzzle/quiz games that I can easily replicate in case the transition won't be seamless.

tenrdrmer

@Jove there is no reason to tell someone to ask you question over PM. This is information that is good for all users to know. The questions need to stay public on the forum so everyone can be sure they get all the info they are looking for.

TheGabfather

@tenrdrmer Thanks a lot! I understand that 64GBs is such a small space to work with, but I only had limited choices (refurbished units, stocks were limited). And yes, can't wait for seamless transition between versions!

@JoVe Thanks! I hope the Air can stay cool enough for me to leave it on while I'm out. Will definitely read up on Splashtop.

I hope I can get more insights! Really excited to finally publish my first set of apps. I might be a computer scientist + graphic artist, but being a solo developer.. GS is really the piece of software for me. I'd die programming for the iOS and Android on my own )