The Showdown Between Unity vs RPG Maker

For robust multi-platform 3D and 2D game creations, Unity is the superior choice, particularly beneficial for developers focused on augmented reality and virtual reality applications. However, beginners and story-driven RPG enthusiasts might find RPG Maker, with its ease of use and less coding knowledge required, a more suitable starting point.

Key Differences Between Unity and RPG Maker

• Unity pumps out 3D and 2D games compatible with various platforms while RPG Maker specializes in sprite-based, story-driven RPG games.
• Unity’s rich asset store enables a higher degree of customization compared to RPG Maker that’s subject to engine limitations.
• The coding languages supported by Unity include C#, Javascript and Boo Script while RPG Maker is built in JavaScript and HTML5.
• Unity’s pricing model requires developers to pay per game installation, which has created friction within its user base. RPG Maker, however, charges for its DLCs, offering a less controversial pricing structure.

What Is Unity and Who’s It For?

Unity, the brainchild launched in 2005, is a powerful engine adept in crafting both 3D and 2D games. It’s a jackpot for developers, thanks to its cross-platform compatibility, including Android and iOS, and it’s adaptability with numerous operating systems. Its expansive suite of tools, animation tech, and features back up high-grade game creation.

Unity targets a vast audience, from professional developers to amateurs fond of building Augmented Reality and 3D simulations. It offers both free and Pro versions, with the latter packed with a stellar array of features.

Pros of Unity

• Supports diverse coding languages
• Integrated with a variety of pre-designed textures and features
• Active developer community
• Game design flexibility

Cons of Unity

• Switch to per-install fee pricing model
• Mistrust among users due to unannounced changes
• Fears regarding financial viability due to sudden pricing shifts

What Is RPG Maker and Who’s It For?

RPG Maker, conceived by ASCII, Enterbrain, Agetec, Degica, and Gotcha Gotcha Games, emerged on the development scene in 1992. Its forte is in the crafting of story-oriented Role-Playing Games (RPGs). RPG Maker supports a variety of languages and platforms offering immense flexibility.

Primarily aimed at developers who prioritize story-driven elements, RPG Maker excludes the need for deep coding knowledge. Its simple usage combined with robust character creation makes it a favored choice among amateur and budding developers.

Pros of RPG Maker

• No in-depth coding knowledge required
• Robust character creation options
• Easily accessible DLCs
• Wide platform compatibility

Cons of RPG Maker

• Engine’s limitations restrict versatility
• Potential controversy around games developed with RPG Maker

Code Examples for Unity & RPG Maker

Unity – Random Object Movement

This snippet represents a Unity code example that simulates a random object movement. Ensure you have Unity 3D version 5.0 or later for optimal functioning.

using UnityEngine;
public class RandomMovement : MonoBehaviour {

     public float speed = 10.0f;
     private float elapsedTime = 0.0f;
     private Vector3 targetPosition;
 
     void Start() {
         targetPosition = NewRandomPosition();
     }
 
     void Update() {
         elapsedTime += Time.deltaTime;

         if(elapsedTime > 1.0f) {
             elapsedTime = 0.0f;
             targetPosition = NewRandomPosition();
         }

         transform.position = Vector3.MoveTowards(transform.position, targetPosition, speed * Time.deltaTime);
     }

     Vector3 NewRandomPosition() {
         return new Vector3(Random.Range(-50.0f, 50.0f), 0, Random.Range(-50.0f, 50.0f));
     }
}

RPG Maker – Quest Implementation

This JavaScript snippet presents an RPG Maker code example for a simple quest system. RPG Maker MV or MZ is required as they support this scripting language.

var $QuestData = $QuestData || {};
$QuestData.list = $QuestData.list || [];

function Quest(id, title, description) {
    this.id = id;
    this.title = title;
    this.description = description;
    this.status = "Not Started";
}

Quest.prototype.start = function() {
    this.status = "In Progress";
};

Quest.prototype.complete = function() {
    this.status = "Completed";
};

var fetchWaterQuest = new Quest(1, "Fetch Water", "Fetch some water from the river to the east");
$QuestData.list[fetchWaterQuest.id] = fetchWaterQuest;

The Final Word: Unity vs RPG Maker – Which Reigns Superior?

Coming to a decision on the best choice between Unity and RPG Maker is contingent on your audience, game concept, and goals. Each has its strengths, applicable to different audience segments.

Indie Game Developers

Experience with coding languages like Javascript and C# will find Unity fits the bill. It is versatile and supports game creation across genre boundaries. But, this comes with a cost. The recent pricing shakeup, with fees per install, could hurt solo creators economically. In contrast, RPG Maker, though limited, provides a reasonable, stable pricing structure.

AR/VR Creators

Untapped potential lies within Unity for AR/VR creators. Unity’s continuous push for evolving tech, compatibility, and immersive visual experiences makes it a perfect staging ground for AR/VR projects.

Story-driven Game Makers

Despite the limited engine of RPG Maker, it thrives on genre-specific growth and boasts unique design choices. For creators who focus on developing games with story-driven elements, its simplicity and stability make it a worthwhile choice.

In the contest of Unity vs RPG Maker, the ‘one size fits all’ principle is nonexistent. Unity leads in advanced, cross-platform game development, while RPG Maker excels in simplicity and genre-specific creation. Your choice rests on the project specifics and your familiarity with coding languages.