Q:

Getting started with C# on OS X

I'd like to create a few simple C# applications and command line utilities to learn more about C#, affordably.  Initially, I tried using Microsoft's free Studio Express in a Windows 8 virtual machine; however, it quickly reported that it could only create apps for the Microsoft app store and failed to build the simplest examples of an XML file transformer.
I also found Mono or rather MonoDevelop.   I'm still reading about it.  It seems that the SDK is entangled with the MonoDevelop IDE, and the MonoDevelop installer is actually the Xamarin Studio installer.  Xamarin is a subscription based IDE and inexpensive versions of it appear to be constrained.  Perhaps I need to continue studying; however, I thought I'd ask if anyone has experience getting started with C# on OS X.
Ideally, I'd like the simplest setup.  I prefer using command line compilers, simple code  editors, and build scripts.   Are there Windows and OS X command line compilers for C# applications?  Are there framework libraries that can easily be included that work on both OS X and Windows?

A:

I've settled on using a Windows 8 virtual machine and Visual Studio Express for Windows Desktop as Dan J recommended.   For usage similar to mine, simple desktop and command line apps, be careful not to select and install the "V.S.E. for Windows" version.

