Yes there was a Beta 1 and no, you don't need it to run Beta 2. If you install XNA Game Studio Express, you will just launch that to have access to the XNA Framework. It's basicall the C# Express IDE with the XNA tie ins.
The first step it to download Visual C# Express edition, then install and register it. According the the documentation you need to register it, so I just followed the rules on that one.
Once you Visual C# Express Edition installed, then go ahead and download Game Studio Express and install that. You must install GSE second!
Everyone else provided the links you need already.. otherwise just have fun!
Have you installed Game Studio Express If not, clicky. If you have, there should be an item off your Start | All Programs. That will launch the IDE. Click the Help | Contents menu item, go to the XNA | Getting Started section, and check out the Your First Game page.
Where do I get the Framework?
PoorSQLGuy
Rick Strahl
Pockey
The first step it to download Visual C# Express edition, then install and register it. According the the documentation you need to register it, so I just followed the rules on that one.
Once you Visual C# Express Edition installed, then go ahead and download Game Studio Express and install that. You must install GSE second!
Everyone else provided the links you need already.. otherwise just have fun!
Mike
WilderLand Software
azaclauson
Nfrf
WayneSpangler