As an MMORPG gamer I have often thought to myself how I could make one truly awesome MMORPG. Not a big surprise, I am sure you have thought the same thing at one point or another. Let’s face it, there is nobody out there who knows what you like better than you and, as such, it only makes sense that only you could make your own perfect MMORPG, right? Well if you’ve got even the brains, will power, and determination now’s your chance.
Over the last few days I have been doing a fair amount of research on a couple of programs that allow for you to build your own MMORPG. They probably aren’t the only ones out there, but they are certainly the most prominent amongst the DIY games crowd. Of course, I am speaking of none other than PlayerWorlds and Realm Crafter. Each vary in different aspects and technological know how, but each is fairly capable at building either an MORPG or MMORPG. So, let’s get on with it:
For those of you who have little knowledge of programming and an overall plan for an MORPG that is less grand than, let’s say, World of Warcraft then PlayerWorlds is right up your alley. Designed a few years ago the system offers you a nice combination of 2d graphics with a very easy to use system of script editing. Graphics are completely modifiable, to a certain extent of graphics rendering, and the code can be influenced directly through the SadScript file. All fascinating information for people who knows what exactly that means, I am sure.
The engine is completely free to download and use, however it comes with an EULA, basically there are stipulations of use. Sporting a healthy community many games running off the PlayerWorlds engine can be found today, such as:
All of them seem to be pretty competent games in terms of how they were created, especially the Secrets of Mirage game. I am actually going to be testing that one out sometime later. Regardless, there are many more games out there to explore (a quick Google search should help) and, while they all sport the same style of graphics, they look like they could actually be fun.
This engine is not quite as easy to use as PlayerWorlds. In fact, you should really only look at this option if you have a group of dedicated volunteers ready to help you make a game. The plus side is, however, that you’ll be able to create a fully 3d world, as opposed to the 2d worlds of PlayerWorlds. Another thing to consider is that Realm Crafter is not a free program. Coming in at $100 the game engine isn’t overly expensive, but for those who don’t want to drop a dime on their MMORPG this might not be the right choice for you.
Aside from those nitpicks, Realm Crafter definitely looks to be the better of the two engines. With a “sequel” of sorts in development now, the next version is promising to include DirectX9 graphics, dynamic lighting, bloom and tone mapping, dynamic shadows, realistic water, ripples and reflections, and a customizable GUI. No word yet on the release date or the pricing, however standard Realm Crafter owners will be able to upgrade for free.
Despite being the better engine of the two I could only find one game that is live and running off the Realm Crafter engine. However, there are reportedly many games in development using it. For those who wish to see the game in action head on over to the Apocalypse Online website. The game is 100% free, and while the graphics are certainly a bit dated the actual game doesn’t actually sound that bad.
Anyways, these are the two options I can find that will probably best suit any would-be MMO developers out there, whether you are one person or a team of volunteers. While the big games may be fun and exciting, it really is the indy games that live through the community. Support your local indy MMO scene by checking out one of these fine games today.
You actually missed one of the biggest ones out there — Multiverse. As far as I know, the engine is completely free and there are over a dozen games that are being developed (at least that are on their website) and I’m sure many others that haven’t made it that far yet. As for the quality of the engine I have no idea how it stacks up with these, but you can go check out their site at http://www.multiverse.net
Ya I knew there were going to be programs like multiverse that got left out… I found Realm Crafter and PlayerWorlds and decided to write about them and I am happy about that decision. While Multiverse is the same deal as the others, it looks to be a bit more advanced and the projects that it has as examples aren’t volunteer per say but actual indy studios working on MMOs… suffice it to say I don’t think a group of friends would be able to create much with Multiverse.
Torque MMO is also out there and great to ‘play’ with. Pretty easy to use and develop with.
I’ve done programming in college and i always find it fun. I recently got Microsoft’s XNA program and gave it a try; for the most part, it was straight forward but not for the faint of heart. I haven’t tried any MMO editors but I would like to, something free of course as I know this isn’t going into any serious.
My big interest is driven by the fact that I’m a SQA engineer by trade for over 15 years. When I started plying my knowledge to MMOs, it was a pleasure but frustrating not knowing the actual or approximate requirements, having no way to determine if a potential issue was already reported, or having a way to track my issues and make updates.
I’ve mad this same comment in our forums in the hopes that someday, companies that want good beta testers will supply more tools/methods for us to be effective.
I left off with playing mmorpg before there was such a thing… good to know roleplaying has progressed this far. I am going to check out some of these engines. Thanks for the information. Its much appreciated…
Actually, I have a question for the next commenter, would multiverse let you create an MMORPG like runescape or WoW
My question is the same as Andrew’s here i would like to know if you could create a game like runscape or wow while using Multiverse.
what if your computer doesnt work with mutiverse and can someone give me the link because i only found world browse
well i was wondering if there is a way to use realmcrafter to make a mmo with no rpg like (habbo and zwinky were you just hang out and make freind while being able to change your cloths around and make your own room) and to be a member and get speical items on cloths,rooms,and funiture for your room you ha to pay real money kids from age 10-16 would spend all kinds on money on that thing…any way i can do that??
I read your make your own mmo and im having problams with playerworlds it not connecting to the sever
I’ve found out how to make it work but how do you make your own game on PlayerWorlds.
People, Realm Crafter, Player Worlds, and The Unreal Engine, or Multiverse are able to do whatever there users can do. There is no “Make a WoW”, “Make a Runescape” button here. Sure you can make basic MMO’s with things such as Realm Crafter, but your not gonna make a “WoW” or RuneScape, or even Everquest 1 for that matter. MMO’s are not easily built. And usually require a team. So good luck to all.
Anyone know where to make a 3d game like Tribal Wars or Travian, except that u can control your own caracter with arrow keys?
this game is fun and luxure able and joy full wana play?
hi,
i would like to develop a management mmog. this will not involve any 3D graphics only tables and numbers. it will be a mathematic/statistic/game.
i am not sure were to start from. i am familiar with the market were i would like to situated on, but from the technical point of view i have no clue how to start.
i know which is the mathematical model behind all the statistics and calculus, but i need a hint were to start for the interface/link/website.
if you could give me a hint, i will buy you a pinned.
regards
avprowebeden
It never says how to download the MMO creator and i have checked the whole site and nothing says where to download. where is the downloading thing?
Hi i am lokking for a mmo maker for free that you do not need to download you see this computer i am using is not working that well so i am trying not to download to much so if any one could find 1 it would be very greatfull
thanks
Making your own WoW-style MMO should certainly be possible with any respectable game engine. But remember that an engine is nothing more than a programming base — it’s not a game yet. Far from it. The engine takes care of some basic game mechanics — movement, physics, XYZ based positioning and so forth, but has nothing to do with HP, leveling, equipment balancing, enemies, PvP, any of the basics of the MMORPG.
If you really want to take on building an MMO, go for it — if nothing else, it will be a learning experience. Do not expect to make WoW by yourself. Do not expect to have more than a few players, most of whom you will probably know in real life, unelss you’re willing to invest a few million into development and marketing.
A-ha! I knew there was a game creator. Thanks dude, I’ll get players world and Realm Crafter, but after Players World, 8 years later from now, will a 3D game from my company be published mwahahaha!
Oh wtf… Anyways nice list.
will any of these give you a virus?
don’t try any of these
Okay, first- Will these give a virus? Second, i’m slightly interested in PlayerWorlds, and I was wondering if it could be worked on by several people from different computers and locations at the same time? If so, could a group of 12-year olds (let’s say…5) complete it? How long would it take?
And, I know my answer’s probably up there, but- Do you NEED to work on code or NEED to work without code? Or could you work either way, or choose whichever one you prefer?
don’t download realmcrafter! It has a virus!!!!!!!!!!!!!
What kind of virus?
oh, and if you happen to find any animal mmorpgs plz tell me. Ones that you only play animals like impressive tittle
dude what about nity 3d it good in 3d and all other stuff man y forget unity it can be used to make fps rpg and mmo