PlayStation

RPG Maker

How often does a game like RPG Maker make it over to the US? In fact, it doesn't happen often, if at all. Chances are, if this title doesn't sell well, we might not see another publisher attempt to bring one of its kind over again. So, wanna be RPG developers of the world, make sure to give RPG Maker a shot; while it might not be up to the visual caliber of the current era of RPGs, it is a flexible and resourceful title that can bring forth an experience unlike any other - as long as you're willing to fork over the time commitment.

Though I'd rather play the RPGs than create them, I heartily recommend this game to anyone who has ever thought about making his or her own RPGs. I also recommend it to those who want to work for a game company because it separates the wheat from the chaff, big time.

This really makes you feel that you are creating an RPG all by yourself, and even makes you feel like a developer who struggles with fine tuning a game for perfection and other minor loose bolts for the tightest possible gameplay. The gameplay depends on how you make the game, if it sucks that's your fault, the game has some pre-set RPGs for you just to teach you how to play RPG Maker. If you are thinking of getting RPG Maker, I highly suggest getting a strategy guide along with it, or at least check out some FAQs on the game.

I admit that it has its flaws, though. I'd have liked more town and dungeon graphics to choose from, and it would have been nice if the events system were a little less confusing ("switches" especially). Even so, no tiny hinderances like that can tear me away from my love for RPG Maker. I plan to purchase the full box copy as soon as I've got the cash in my pocket.

Knowing off the bat that your experience with RPG Maker will frequently have you elbow-deep in the most hostile of interfaces - scripting events, penning text, or what have you - will most adequately prepare you for the rigors of RPG making.

But if you have the time and the memory, if you are an RPG addict and must see the current state of consumer RPG design, RPG Maker is a must. And creating an RPG that is specific to the tastes, humor, and experiences of you and your friends, to include likenesses and obscure in-jokes that would make the writers of "The Simpsons" jealous, is almost too good pass up.