First off, Basic would be, by far, an easier language to program a game in. But C++ is still quite possible, if you don't mind spending some extra time. First off, are you planning on 2D or 3D? That will make a huge difference. Here are some websites that should help you deside:
http://www.riemers.net/eng/Tutorials/Direc...eries1/tut1.php//This is the best tutorial I have seen on DirectX C++ 3D game programming, although it does not go very far, it SHOULD get you start. This is probably the lengthiest way to program a game, but you *could* do anything you want (motion blur, HDR, etc).
http://alleg.sourceforge.net///For a less involved approach. I definatly recommend looking into it.
http://www.ultimategameprogramming.com///I have not looked into OpenGl much or 2D programming, but this site has everything.
There are tons of way to program games, but not all are free, and there is a time-control corallation in programming methods. Little time = little control. (Ex: a map editor)
After reading through those websites you will probably know what you are looking for and what specific questions to ask.