Who Should You Bet On: Panda3D or Unity3D?

For experienced developers planning intricate 3D projects, Unity3D delivers vast cross-platform functionality and a rich marketplace. However, Panda3D’s open-source nature coupled with Python capabilities might better suit those looking for granular control or operating on a tight budget.

Key Differences Between Panda3D and Unity3D

• Language Support: Panda3D supports both Python and C++, while Unity3D leans on C# and JavaScript.
• Licensing: Panda3D is free and open-source, Unity’s cost varies by usage and revenue.
• Community: Unity3D has a larger community and marketplace, whereas Panda3D thrives among specific professional users.
• Use-case: Unity3D is preferred for mobile and indie game development, Panda3D is a choice tool for VR and 3D theme park attractions.

What Is Panda3D and Who’s It For?

Panda3D, a gem for 3D game creation, was originally sculpted by Disney Interactive. A game engine founded in 2002, it offers 3D rendering & game development using Python and C++. Versatile in its compatibility, Panda3D plays well with numerous operating systems, including Windows, Linux, and MacOS. It’s a perfect kit for game developers, university courses, and open-source projects. Notably, proficiency in Python and knowledge of APIs is vital to navigate this brightly flavored beast.

Pros of Panda3D

• Stellar for 3D game rendering
• Sublime compatibility: Windows, Linux, macOS
• Free, open-source
• Rigorous community support

Cons of Panda3D

• Requires Python and APIs familiarity
• Not for beginners

What Is Unity3D and Who’s It For?

Unity3D, a cross-platform game engine, blossomed first in 2005 as a Mac OS X game engine. Now, Unity3D stretches beyond gaming, aiding industries from film to engineering. Suited for iOS and Android mobile game development, Unity3D makes a friendly working environment for beginners while maintaining its allure to indie game developers. Remember, their ‘Per Install’ fee and pricing varies according to your revenue.

Pros of Unity3D

• Vast platform support
• Great for beginner developers
• 2D and 3D game creation support
• Cross-platform release functionality

Cons of Unity3D

• ‘Per Install’ fee applicable
• Pricing fluctuates with revenue thresholds
• Impact of political changes and policy instability

Code Examples for Panda3D & Unity3D

Panda3D: Spinning Cube

Block of code to present a spinning cube in Panda3D. Intended for displays with ≥30 FPS. Python and Panda3D installations prerequisite.

from direct.showbase.ShowBase import ShowBase
from panda3d.core import Point3
from direct.task import Task
from math import sin, cos

class MyApp(ShowBase):
    def __init__(self):
        ShowBase.__init__(self)

        # Load the cube model.
        self.cube = self.loader.loadModel("models/box")
        self.cube.reparentTo(self.render)

        # Adds a task, animation for spinning the cube.
        self.taskMgr.add(self.spinCameraTask, "spinCameraTask")

    # Spinning cube animation definition.
    def spinCameraTask(self, task):
        angleDegrees = task.time * 10.0
        angleRadians = angleDegrees * (3.14159 / 180.0)
        self.cube.setPos(20 * sin(angleRadians), -20.0 * cos(angleRadians), 3)
        self.cube.lookAt(Point3(0, 0, 0))
        return Task.cont

app = MyApp()
app.run()

Unity3D: Pulsating Material Glow

Segment of code generating a pulsating glow effect on Unity3D object materials. Assumes usage of ShaderLab syntax. Unity3D prerequisite.

using System.Collections;
using System.Collections.Generic;
using UnityEngine;

public class PulsateGlow : MonoBehaviour
{

    public float minGlow;
    public float maxGlow;
    public float speed;
    private Material material;

    // Getting the material
    void Start()
    {
        material = GetComponent<Renderer>().material;
    }

    // Update is called once per frame
    void Update()
    {
        float glow = minGlow + Mathf.PingPong(Time.time * speed, maxGlow - minGlow);
        material.SetColor("_EmissionColor", new Color(glow, glow, glow));
    }
}

Panda3D vs Unity3D: The Technical Showdown

After weighing the capabilities of both Panda3D and Unity3D, it comes down to your specific needs and proficiency. Here’s where each platform shines:

Advanced Game Developers

Panda3D is for you. The engine supports Python and C++ and includes advanced features like automatic shader synthesis, 3D audio, physics system, collision detection and AI. Given its vast capabilities and technical requirements, Panda3D is more suited for professional use.

Beginner Game Developers

If you’re just dipping your toes in the pool of game development, consider Unity3D. It’s known for its ease of use, robust support for beginners and its popularity among indie game developers.

Commercial Game Development

If the goal is mass-market, cross-platform gaming, Unity3D is the winner. Thanks to its comprehensive cross-platform release functionality and extensive collection on the Unity marketplace, it has been widely adopted for commercial game development.

University or Open-Source Projects

For researchers, university projects, or open-source ventures, Panda3D grants unrivaled freedom. Not only is Panda3D free and open-source, but it also originated from a collaborative venture between Disney and universities, intended for VR research and development, making it a better choice for academia.

Choosing between Panda3D and Unity3D boils down to your technical proficiency, project requirements, and commercial objectives. For professional use, rich feature sets, and extensive customizability, Panda3D holds the upper hand. For beginners, indie development, cross-platform versatility, and commercial game development, Unity3D stands out.