Before you start through these tutorials it’s important that you get a copy of Adobe Flash CS3. Since the programming in the tutorials is going to be based on ActionScript 3 it is necessary to have Flash CS3. Previous versions used ActionScript 2 and it’s quite a bit different from ActionScript 3.

Now, I realize that most people don’t have the $699 that it costs to actually purchase a copy of Flash, but there are a few other options for “legally” getting a copy:

1. You can download a trial version of Flash CS3, but it only works for 30 days. Here is the link: http://www.adobe.com/go/tryflash

2. If you’re a student or teacher you can usually get an educational version of the software. If the institution has a book store you can generally pick up a copy there. If not, here is the link for Adobe’s educational discount site: http://www.adobe.com/education/products/flash/. The catch here is that the educational version can only be used for learning purposes.

3. The final option is a bit more creative. Adobe offers sizable discounts for upgrade packages. The upgrade for Flash CS3 is $299 compared to the $699. So, occasionally you can find previous versions on eBay or other auction sites. If you can find a copy of Flash MX 2004 or 8 for less than $400, you can save some money on getting the full version. This is the link for the upgrade page: http://www.adobe.com/uk/products/flash/upgrade/.

Once you’ve got your copy of Flash you’ll be able to follow along with our tutorials.