RPG Maker vs Godot: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between RPG Maker and Godot comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
RPG Maker
Create RPG games without coding
Best for you if:
- • You need create rpg games without coding
- • You need professional-grade features
Godot
Open-source game engine
Best for you if:
- • You need something completely free
- • You need open-source game engine
- • You want a completely free tool
| At a Glance | ||
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Free |
Best For | Developer Tools | Developer Tools |
Rating | —/100 | —/100 |
| Feature | RPG Maker | Godot |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Free |
| Editorial Score | — | — |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 202 | 190 |
| Categories | Developer ToolsGaming & Game Dev | Developer ToolsGaming & Game Dev |
Understanding the Differences
Both RPG Maker and Godot solve similar problems, but they approach them differently.RPG Maker positions itself as "create rpg games without coding" while Godotfocuses on "open-source game engine". These differences matter depending on what you're trying to accomplish.
When to Choose RPG Maker
RPG Maker makes sense if you're looking for a comprehensive paid solution.
When to Choose Godot
Godot is worth considering if you need a free tool.
Who Should Use What?
Bootstrapped or small team?
Godot won't cost you anything to start, which is exactly what early-stage teams need.
We'd pick: Godot
Growing fast?
Your team doubled last quarter and you need tools that won't break when you add 50 more people. Godot is built for teams that are leveling up.
We'd pick: Godot
Enterprise with complex needs?
You need SSO, compliance certifications, and a support team that picks up the phone. RPG Maker is built for organizations like yours.
We'd pick: RPG Maker
Still not sure? Answer these 3 questions
How much can you spend?
Zero budget? Godot won't cost you anything.
Do you care what other users think?
Both have similar review counts. Read a few before you commit.
Expert opinion or crowd wisdom?
Our team rated RPG Maker higher (/100). But the community has upvoted RPG Maker more (202 votes). Pick your source of truth.
Key Takeaways
What RPG Maker Does Better
- More community upvotes
- Our recommendation for most use cases
Consider Godot If
- You need a completely free solution
- Its specific features better match your workflow
- You prefer its interface or design approach
The Bottom Line
If we had to pick one, we'd go with RPG Maker. But the honest answer is that "better" depends on your situation. RPG Maker scores higher in our analysis, but Godot might be the right choice if its specific strengths align with what you need most. Take advantage of free trials to test both before committing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is RPG Maker or Godot better?
Based on our analysis, RPG Maker scores higher with high/100. RPG Maker ispaid while Godot is free. The best choice depends on your specific needs and budget. We recommend testing both with free trials if available.
Can I switch from RPG Maker to Godot easily?
Migration difficulty varies. Check if both tools support data export/import in compatible formats. Some tools offer migration assistance or have integration partners who can help with the transition.
Do RPG Maker and Godot offer free trials?
Most software in this category offers free trials or free tiers. RPG Maker is paid with potential trial.Godot is completely free. Visit their websites for current trial offers.