HT Games
For beginners and visual learners:
* RPG Maker MV: The gold standard for ease of use. Drag-and-drop interface, pre-made assets, and a strong community. You can create games for Windows, Mac, and even mobile platforms. (Free trial available, with a paid version for more features.)
* GameMaker Studio 2: More powerful and flexible than RPG Maker, but with a steeper learning curve. Offers a free version with limitations.
* Stencyl: Another drag-and-drop tool, good for learning the basics of game development.
For those who prefer coding:
* Godot Engine: A powerful and free open-source engine, becoming increasingly popular for 2D and 3D games.
* Unity: An industry-standard engine with a large community and extensive resources. It has a free version with limitations.
* Unreal Engine: Another industry-standard engine, primarily used for 3D games but also suitable for 2D. Offers a free version with limitations.
Specialized RPG-focused tools:
* Ren'Py: A powerful Python-based engine designed specifically for visual novels and RPGs. Excellent for story-driven games.
* Twine: A simple and intuitive tool for creating text-based RPGs and interactive fiction.
Important Considerations:
* Learning Curve: Choose a tool that matches your skill level. Drag-and-drop tools are easier to learn, while coding engines require more programming knowledge.
* Features and Flexibility: Consider the specific features you need for your RPG. Some engines are better for 2D games, while others excel in 3D.
* Community and Resources: Choose a tool with a strong community for support and tutorials.
Where to Find the Software:
* Official Websites: Visit the official websites of the tools mentioned above to download the free versions.
* App Stores: You can also find some free RPG game creation tools on the App Store (for iOS) and Google Play Store (for Android).
Remember to experiment with different tools to find the one that best fits your needs and interests. Have fun creating your own RPG!