The syntax is not really that different to C++!
The word "powerful" is not a very precise one; you can probably do a lot in Java that you can do in C++. Java has also been known to outperform C++ at some tasks. :)
These days a lot of ARM chips even come with native Java bytecode processing support, which can make it quite interesting, especially in the embedded field. Unfortunately the software virtual machines are usually very badly implemented. For instance, it can take a long time sometimes just to get a Java process to even start on Windows and OS X.
Yeah, I like C#. Shares a lot in common with Java, but I find it much cleaner and easier to read and write, and isn't as restricted at runtime by the dimensions of the virtual machine as Java is.

I make games in Java rofl

Got any to show?

I've dabbled but I don't care to learn it when I can fall back on a language like Ruby or Python and take a more direct approach to a problem that I'm trying to solve.

I just prefer to spend my time fighting the problem than the tool I'm using to solve the problem.

Personally it won't benefit myself by learning it and I probably won't find all that much enjoyment in it either. If you have the time and patience to learn it, all the power to you though.

Yes, agree. I can write C, but generally I don't like to because it takes several times longer to achieve even simple tasks. Mostly I only continue writing C just so that I remember how to. :(

I'd write you, skyld.

Taking CNS in college at the moment, so we'll be able to be friends soon!

I'm currently learning the VERY basics of C++, and I hope to soon pursue Java upon becoming a "basic programmer" in C++.

=D

That means you should friend me. I have read a whole entire 400 paged book on it, downloaded the client and made somethings. Been usin' it for a couple years now. Also, I am starting some Java and XCode.

Just started c++ with some program called code::blocks

What does that program do? Make Games?

So far, I've only opened a blank project and typed in simple code and compiled it. There's tons of other options that I am unable to understand, however... it's professional, big stuff, not your silly little game "creator".

Ah, ok. I don't make games either. I am starting to make a program in C++ that will Help you find your future job, with over 500 questions that finds the answer.

Ugh, I gotta learn it. As of right now, the only thing I know how to script is a Trainer battle in Pokemon using the notepad. Well, f**k.

lol I am doing my self in, I am trying learning c++ with code::blocks and I am also trying to learn Gs2 as well but I am learning these at a very slow rate XD