In virtual function lesson, why must use pointers instead of object.member()?

Question

So why we can't use n.attack() and m.attack() to print out the attack? I'm referring to "virtual functions" lesson.

Answer 1

It's hard to answer without seeing the code, but in general obj.method() and (&obj)->method() work the same way. Perhaps, the lesson tried to emphasize calling virtual method of derived class through bar pointer.

Answer 2

You're right, your code is shorter and more readable. However, if you had a collection of enemies, you can polymorphically attack using pointers to base.

Answer 3

@Igor Berger

int main(){
Ninja n;
Monster m;
Enemy* e1=&n;
Enemy* e2=&m;
e1->attack();
e2->attack();
return 0;}

"We would have the same result by calling the member functions directly from the objects. However, it's more easier and faster to use pointers."
Why? I think that's easier and faster to write:

int main(){
Ninja n;
Monster m;
n.attack();
m.attack();
return 0;}

Answer 4

Understood. Thanks a lot!