hi Pieter, i am currently learning DirectX now. During my poly days, i have only worked with DirectSound (and a bit on DirectShow), and know a few things about com initialize in DirectX. So i guess there is lots to catch up with.
Anyway what i am thinking is, most RPGs developers use an RPG engine. (During my final year project i used an engine called "fly3D".)
thus, having an engine will be much more easier then writing our own game shell, althought i cannot say it would be more flexible.
anyway hope you can brief me more about whats going on