While I should really actually learn C++ first among other things. I wanted to try and fuck with a really old version of DirectX (8.1) since I had a Win2k machine. I know it's old af,but Jesus how did/does anyone put up with how proprietary Microsoft's shit is.

Dx9 is still used in some games...
So it is still revelant. Great for a programming newbe, a bit of shit in games due to the limitations and constant encapsulation on every API with more API. Good luck with dx and c++, just make sure you dont fuck up the memory part.