Free RPG engines/toolsets ("RPG makers")

[sheek]

I am looking for a engine to build an adventure I have in mind... I did some research and excluding from the multitude of JRPG ones I've narrowed it down to:

-DungeonCraft http://uaf.sourceforge.net/
-Explore RPG http://www.explore-rpg.com/ (not free)
-Runesword 2 http://www.runesword.com/rs2.html
-IsoWorld http://www.spritec.com/legacy/isoworld.html
-Hephaestus http://markdamonhughes.com/Hephaestus/index.php


Have you got any experience designing/playing adventures made with these? What are the disadvantages of each?

I have started with DungeonCraft (made a map with talking NPCs and encounters) and I think it's fine and allows me to do what I want (probably extend skill list using Special Item ownership checks) but people complain that the combat AI is still faulty and won't be fixed for a while.

Runesword was sucky to play and had quite limited editor last time I tried it, though I can't remember if that was version 1 or 2.

Isoworld was limited to I think 3 attributes and no skills last time I tested it and had limited interactions, even if it looks great. There is a scripting language for it but I think it would be a lot of work modifying it for my purposes. Not freeware, no community that I can see.

Hepahaestus looks too ugly, and I don't want to make my own art.

Any I missed? Would I just be better off sticking to the NWN toolset?

My requirements:
-mid range PC
-preferably 2D first person view or isometric exploration (Gold Box/Arkania)
-fairly extensive default character system, D&D 2nd ed would be the minimum
-some scripting ability to overcome hard-coding
-controllable party in combat (4+)
-easy map design, tilesets
-supports reading a fair amount of text (descriptions, dialog)
-limited branching conversation support
-'overland'/traveling interface, allowing random encounters that interrupt travel between areas
-hex/grid combat, turn-based
-support, forums etc
-extensive art resources (generic fantasy, my setting is Lankhmar)
-magic/spells don't matter since it's a low/zero magic adventure

 

[Luzur]

Unlimited Adventures? dunno if its free though.

 

[sheek]

FRUA is free I'm sure. DungeonCraft is it's successor btw.

 

[Mattresses]

lern 2 code, fagit

 

[markec]

Can anyone recommend a few free games/campaigns/modules for such programs and/or RPGMaker.

 

[Elzair]

Well, here are all the things I can find.

Adventure Creation Kit might be too old for you, but it does seem to be simple.

IT-HE Roleplaying Engine might be too primitive as well, but it might be worth a look.

Exult comes with a nice editor that could be used to create a new game (especially if you don't mind re-using Ultima sprites).

jClassicRPG, although it is 3-D, has a lot of what you seem to be looking for. However, I cannot testify to how playable the current product is or how usable the editor.

F.I.F.E might be too your liking, but I don't know how complete it is.

GemRB might be used to create a new RPG, but it is just a recreation of the Infinity Engine.

 

[Konjad]

I'd make a modification to game than make new. Buy NWN or some other game with good toolset and make mod.

 

[Elzair]

I'd make a modification to game than make new. Buy NWN or some other game with good toolset and make mod.

That might be the best option if you cannot find a free solution. Personally, I am allergic to the idea of doing a company's job for them, but whatever floats your boat.

If you want to mod an exisiting game based on your requirements, I would suggest Temple of Elemental Evil. The Circle of 8 forum is a good place to look for more information.

 

[sheek]

I don't want to make a new game, I want a toolkit to make adventures.

Thanks Elzair though. Never heard of GemRB or jClassicRPG, look good.

DungeonCraft next update will be 1.0 and allow modification of ruleset (new skills, spells) so I will probably stay with that.