C++ is the one language that continues to scare me and I keep putting off learning it.

If I knew C++, I would be able to contribute to these projects:

Clementine

A modern, cross-platform music player and library organizer inspired by Amarok 1.4. Built with C++ and Qt, it supports playback of local files, streaming from various services (Spotify, SoundCloud, etc.), and features a beautiful interface with album art, lyrics, and music discovery.

Things I’d fix:

  • Ctrl + W should not close the application, but the tab
  • Font size in the lists etc.
  • Album Arts view

Dolphin

KDE’s default file manager for Linux/Unix. It’s a powerful, feature-rich file manager written in C++ with Qt and KDE Frameworks. Supports split views, tabs, file previews, and deep integration with KDE Plasma desktop.

Things I’d fix:

  • Shortcut to create a new empty file
  • Export current folder path as a property over DBUS

OpenAge

A free, open-source game engine that reimplements Age of Empires II. Written in C++ and Python, it aims to provide a modern engine compatible with the original game’s assets while adding new features like improved multiplayer and modding support.

Things I’d add:

  • Lots of “cool stuff” - starting with better AI pathing and unit behavior.

Endless Sky

A free, open-source 2D space trading and combat game similar to the classic Escape Velocity series. Explore a galaxy with hundreds of star systems, trade goods, complete missions, upgrade your ship, or become a pirate. Written in C++ with SDL.

Things I’d add:

  • Just fix top GitHub issues mostly.