A CIVIL GARDEN PARTY ~ 2K3 DISCUSSION

Largely because it's what I know. Also largely because low-resolution graphics are easier to produce. I am aware that I can just inflate the graphics and import them into XP/VX, but then I'd start running into some visual inconsistencies that would bother me (irrationally so). A considerable barrier is having to learn RGSS. I have never programmed anything outside of a handful of simple awk scripts. I almost got VX but was talked out of it due to the tileset limitations, but will get Ace if I am inclined to make something new whenever Necropolis is completed.

Given that you, Craze, started the thread and seem to be the VX/Ace advocate, let me ask you something:

If any given RMN user were to release a non sucky game in RM 2k3, would you play it? Review it?

PS: Question here, since I honestly don't know: if my game submission is accepted, how can I advertise for the game?

Welp, i uninstalled 2k and 2k3 from my system. I suppose i will have to save up for XP then.

Those 2k3 tileset/charset converters are awesome! Especially converting one from XP to VX!

I use it because I enjoy using it. It's different from XP and VX - there's a certain feel to it that isn't in the newer models. It's like the difference between an older model car vs today's. Sure, the newer models are sleeker and look better, but the older ones still have a lot of character and gumption in them.

Having used all the versions at one point (95, 2k, 2k3, XP, VX and VXA(trial)) I'd have to say that while I enjoy using the newer versions, I prefer the older ones because they're simpler and you can do almost everything you want to without scripts.

I cannot script to save my life. I can edit parts of scripts. But not script. I've tried to learn but to no avail. It'll probably take me as long to learn to script as it took me to learn how to use 2k3 effectively - years.

That said, I have projects in VX and possibly one in VXA. I'll be buying the English version when it comes out.

As for the whole pirating thing... well, I'm not going to care about an old program that the company no longer cares about. As long as I don't try to sell my project, I have no reason to bother with buying rm2k3. Not so for VX and XP. I did pirate both at the start to check what they were like, but have since bought VX and only retain the XP RTP for games - not that it helps with my computer. (It hates XP for some reason and refuses to play most XP games >.<; )

As for graphics, well, I prefer the scale of 2k/3. The stretched graphics look odd. I much rather the resolution already used in 2k/3 - it's reminiscent of the SNES era.

I have very little to say that hasnt been covered, I stand with Liberty and Link in terms of my usage of RM2k3. In terms of using the other programs I have used all them besides Ace. At the end of the day I am more comfortable with and just like RM2k3.

I just haven't gotten around to making the time investment to learn the new engines. (I also haven't found the time to finish off my existing 2k3 projects).

At this point, the main reason is time constraints for me. I am too busy running this site for you bozos to learn new engines >:|

It sounds like everyone still using 2k3 has good reasons for doing so.

I'm not sure "evangelical" threads like this one need to exist.

I may kid 2k3 users occasionally, but I am "pro-choice".

I still want to know why there aren't the same rips and graphics there are for 2k3 and XP available for VX. : (

If you use it, why do you still use it?
- simple event system
- tons of resources
- larger audience
- nostalgic graphics

Have you ever thought about switching to a different maker?
Yup, I tried making a game in XP for a while.

If you have tried a later maker, what made you go back?
- Some of the functionality of the event system was removed.
- First person battle system didn't work for me.
- Less resources and custom graphics are harder to make

If you're an "excellent eventer," why not try your hand at scripting, which is similar (still entirely logic-based!) but immensely more flexible?
I feel like one of the biggest draws of 2k3 was the event system and that is what should have been expanded more in later versions. Scripting is fine, but I wouldn't want to learn some obscure language just so I can make a game. At that point I would just pick up a serious game making tool or write something in code I already know.

I actually own a legal copy of the Japanese RPG Maker 2k3, but I greatly prefer using XP. I like the mapping tools, the higher resolution, the large increase in eventing options and, above all, the scripting functions. I'm not saying 2k3 is bad, but in every appreciable sense the modern makers are superior.

(Though I suppose it is cool to have a built in side battle view for those who like that sort of thing.)