Getting to the Heart of Panda3D vs Unity

If you’re a seasoned game developer comfortable with Python or C++, Panda3D, a versatile open-source 3D game engine, is your optimal choice. With no costs attached and extensive community support, it ensures a robust development process. Conversely for collaborating on commercial projects, primarily involving 2D/3D or AR/VR, Unity, given the suite of tools and cross-platform compatibility, stands unparalleled.

Key Differences Between Panda3D and Unity

• Panda3D is free and open-source, offering extensive community support. Unity has a complex paid model, and prospective changes have stirred discontent among developers.
• Panda3D supports Python and C++ fully, while Unity provides a variety of coding languages including BOO, JavaScript, and C#.
• Despite embracing a pay-per-install model, Unity offers an asset store incorporating a wide range of pre-designed features which Panda3D lacks.
• Unity facilitates the creation of mobile games and incorporates AR/VR features, while Panda3D focuses more on traditional 3D development.

What Is Panda3D and Who’s It For?

Panda3D is an open-source, free-to-use 3D game engine that offers comprehensive features for game development and rendering. Primarily catering to developers with a basic knowledge of Python and APIs, it provides components like graphics, 3D audio, collision detection, networking, AI. Originally developed by Disney Interactive and now maintained by Carnegie Mellon University, it is the ideal solution for developers working on large commercial games, open-source projects, and even university courses.

Pros of Panda3D

• Open-source and free
• Comprehensive functionalities for 3D game development
• Supports C++ and Python, with both languages fully supported
• Extensive documentation and community support

Cons of Panda3D

• Requires basic knowledge of Python and APIs. Not suitable for beginners
• Lacks a visual scene editor, as it’s a scene graph engine

What Is Unity and Who’s It For?

Unity is a versatile game development engine renowned for its ability to create both 2D and 3D games. It’s designed for a broad range of developers – from ambitious solos and indies to well-established mobile developers. Offering support for various coding languages, Unity provides an enriched asset store integrated with pre-designed textures and features, enabling developers to design and launch games in diverse platforms.

Pros of Unity

• Adaptability with multiple operating systems
• Robust suite of tools for high-quality game creation
• Large and active developer community facilitating problem-solving
• Variety of coding languages supported

Cons of Unity

• Potential abuse of per-install fees
• Changes in pricing structure, perceived as unfavorable to indie developers
• Diminished trust due to sudden, unannounced changes

Panda3D vs Unity: Pricing

An evaluation of Panda3D and Unity exposes stark pricing contrasts – Panda3D is open-source and free while Unity adopts a potentially costly install-based fee model.

Panda3D

Panda3D is a compelling choice for budget-savvy developers, as it is entirely open source and free. Believing in the power of community-driven innovation, this 3D development tool relies on the altruistic contributions of its user base, even accepting financial support via its OpenCollective campaign. It showcases a business model that prioritises accessibility and contributions over profits.

Unity

In contrast to Panda3D’s cost-agnostic approach, Unity incorporates a complex pricing model that targets revenue successful games generate. Now adopting an install-based fee structure, Unity charges developers for each installation of a game starting from January 1, 2024. The pricing change, while controversial, exempts developers from footing the install fee until their game surpasses $200,000 in revenue and charts over 200,000 installations. Unity’s pricing appears designed to foster experimentation among smaller developers while tapping into the success of larger ones.

Code Examples for Panda3D & Unity

Panda3D

This code snippet demonstrates a basic setup for creating a spinning 3D sphere in Panda3D. As prerequisites, you should have the Panda3D SDK installed and a fundamental understanding of Python language.

from direct.showbase.ShowBase import ShowBase
from panda3d.core import Point3
import math

class MyApp(ShowBase):

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

        self.environ = self.loader.loadModel("models/environment")
        self.environ.reparentTo(self.render)

        self.taskMgr.add(self.spinTask, "spinTask")

    def spinTask(self, task):
        angleDegrees = task.time * 6.0
        angleRadians = angleDegrees * (math.pi / 180.0)
        self.environ.setPos(20*math.sin(angleRadians), -20.0*math.cos(angleRadians), 3)
        return Task.cont

app = MyApp()
app.run()

Unity

This Unity snippet describes how to create a GameObject, and attach a Rigidbody component to it programmatically. It’s essential to have Unity installed and a basic understanding of C# programming language

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

public class ObjectSpawner : MonoBehaviour
{

    public GameObject spherePrefab;

    void Start()
    {
        GameObject newObj = Instantiate(spherePrefab, new Vector3(0, 10, 0), Quaternion.identity);
        Rigidbody rb = newObj.AddComponent<rigidbody>();
        rb.mass = 5;
    }
}
    </rigidbody>

Panda3D vs Unity: What’s Your Call?

There’s no easy one-size-fits-all winner between Panda3D and Unity. The verdict depends on distinct needs and skills of the user. Let’s break it down for you.

Student Pursuing VR Research

Panda3D was originally targeted towards VR research and education. It’s a fantastic engine to work in if you’re in pursuit of a degree or research in VR. Panda3D’s powerful 3D engine comes with extensive documentation and university-level support. Hence, it’s a win for you.

Indie Game Developer

With Panda3D’s impressive flexibility, power and, the best part, zero cost, it’s the go-to for independent game developers. That being said, if you’re creating mobile games, you’d appreciate Unity for its seamless cross-platform capabilities. Be wary, though, of Unity’s controversial per-install fees.

Pro Game Developer

Professionals or studios who’re familiar with common game development languages such as C# will find Unity more accessible. Plus, Unity’s vast asset store and broad support for various platforms lend it a significant edge. However, be ready for the fee structure that Unity avails.

In essence, Panda3D and Unity both have their merits and demerits. If you’re a hobbyist or taking your first steps into game development, Panda3D should be your good start. Aimed at creating heavy-duty commercial games or VR creations? Give Unity a try, albeit with an eye on its pricing paradigm.