Should You Choose Godot or Panda3D?

For beginners eyeing a hassle-free, scene-driven design, Godot is your tool. However, if you’re proficient in Python or C++, seeking advanced 3D rendering prowess, Panda3D, an engine originally developed by Disney Interactive, fits the bill.

Key Differences Between Godot and Panda3D

• Design: Godot uses nodes for complex, reusable scenes while Panda3D uses a Cartesian space scene graph engine.
• Scripting: Godot includes built-in scripting language GDScript and supports C#, but Panda3D uses Python and C++.
• Audience: Godot is beginner-friendly and globally preferred, but Panda3D caters to professional use requiring basic knowledge of Python and APIs.
• Support: Godot roots for .NET on desktop in 4.0, and Panda3D supports Android cross-compile option.
• Licensing: Both the engines are free and open-sourced, but Godot operates under MIT license while Panda3D uses a Revised BSD license.

What Is Godot and Who’s It For?

Godot, a robust open-source game engine, offers intuitive scene-driven design that enables developers to create games from simple building blocks—making it a favorite choice for game developers globally. The engine encourages the use of nodes, capable of combining into sophisticated, reusable scenes. It also features a proprietary scripting language GDscript for streamlined game logic. Tailored for both amateur and experienced game developers, Godot supports continuous enhancements providing ultimate flexibility and customization.

However, its overarching simplicity might be limiting for those involved in complex 3D game development. Notwithstanding, with free licensing, a range of supporting languages, and multi-platform support, Godot remains a staple tool for game development.

Pros of Godot

• Free and open-source offering flexibility and customization
• Supports regular updates and improvements
• Supports C# for .NET platform
• Supports multi-platform operations
• Built-in visual editor

Cons of Godot

• Complex 3D game development might be challenging
• .NET only available for desktop platforms in Godot 4
• Some language bindings like Rust, Nim, Python available through community

What Is Panda3D and Who’s It For?

Panda3D, initially developed by Disney Interactive, is a game engine offering exceptional 3D rendering capabilities. Primarily written in C++, it provides functionality necessary for 3D game creation such as graphics, audio, I/O, and collision detection. Loved by developers of commercial games, university courses, and open-source projects, Panda3D is not for absolute beginners but offers considerable functionality.

Users must possess basic knowledge of Python and APIs to harness its full potential. Despite its steep learning curve, the engine’s scene graph feature, 3D audio, physics system, and AI support contribute to its professional appeal.

Pros of Panda3D

• Supports both Python and C++ scripting
• Offers extensive documentation and community support
• Includes various functionalities such as 3D audio, per-pixel lighting techniques, and AI
• Used in commercially successful games

Cons of Panda3D

• Not beginner-friendly, requires Python and APIs knowledge
• Relies on third-party libraries like FMOD, Nvidia Cg, DirectX, and MFC
• Android cross-compile option, not directly supported

Godot vs Panda3D: Pricing

Both Godot and Panda3D offer their tech, respectively, under MIT and BSD licenses, signaling a complete absence of hidden fees.

Godot

Godot is an open-source game engine provided entirely free under an MIT license. This implies that there are no licensing fees, contracts, or hidden costs associated with using this technology. Its open-source nature allows for constant improvements and updates to the engine’s codebase.

Panda3D

Panda3D operates on a revised BSD license for versions developed after May 28th, 2008. As an open-source engine developed principally in C++, it likewise stands free of any shadowy costs. While Panda3D urges financial support via OpenCollective, it is not an obligation for users.

Code Examples for Godot & Panda3D

Godot

A brief demonstration of a character’s rotating movement utilizing an area node in Godot engine. Make sure to link the “res://character.tscn” file path appropriately.

              extends Area
       var speed : int = 50
       func _ready():
           set_process(true)
       func _process(delta):
           var degree = speed * delta
           rotation_degrees.y += degree
    

Panda3D

Simplified character animation run loop in Panda3D. It is imperative that ‘myModel’ is a legit model path with a walk animation cycle.

                from panda3d.core import Point3
        from direct.actor.Actor import Actor

        class Character(Actor):
            def __init__(self):
                Actor.__init__(self)
                self.loadModel('myModel.bam')
                self.loadAnims({'walk': 'myModel-Walk.bam'})
                self.reparentTo(render)
                self.loop('walk')
            def setPos(self, pos):
                Actor.setPos(self, Point3(pos))

        player = Character()
        player.setPos((0, 10, 0))
        base.run()
    

Godot vs Panda3D: The Final Call

In the face of Godot and Panda3D, your choice depends on skill, need, and platform compatibility. Let’s break it down:

Beginner Game Developers

For you, Godot presents a friendlier UI, intuitive scene-building, and flexible GDScript. It’s an excellent starting point to dip your toes into game creation.

Professional Game Developers

With prior experience, the complexity of Panda3D with its powerful C++/Python foundation might be advantageous, provided you’re proficient in Python and API usage.

3D Game Developers

While both platforms support 3D game development, Godot’s flexibility with device compatibility and direct Blender file import might give it the edge for some. However, Panda3D, with its specialized shaders and 3D features, is a robust choice for focused 3D development.

Open Source Enthusiasts

Both engines run on open-source software. With a slightly more vibrant community, Godot might favor better. However, Panda3D’s established legend and consistent updates provide a compelling reason to lean towards it.

Ultimately, Godot’s versatility and uncomplicated design make it an excellent choice for beginners and moderate game developers. However, Panda3D, with its complex capabilities, couples better with experienced developers and 3D game creation.