In order to work on the current releases of WinROTT, you need to be familiar with GameDev.Net, and the circa 1999-2000 articles.  I've found the series Game Programming Genesis by Joseph Farrell to be informative.  Part IV : Introduction to DirectX is helpful for understanding older versions of DirectX and why developers may have followed a particular path that no longer makes sense.  You also need a solid understanding of COM when working with older versions of DirectX, the components tend to be most accessible via COM/ActiveX interfaces.

Good luck with your game programming.  And remember to visit GameDev for the latest development techniques.