RPG Maker VX Ace

The game creation tool that requires no programming knowledge, RPG Maker VX Ace, is currently free for Windows—100% free to keep—for a limited time at Steam! Don’t miss out, as RPG Maker VX Ace normally costs US$69.99!

RPG Maker VX Ace (RPGツクールVXエース RPG Tsukūru VX Ace) is a game development software focused on creating 2D RPGs, although, like its predecessors, it can be used for other genres as well. It was developed by Gotcha Gotcha Games, KADOKAWA, and Yoji Ojima and was initially released on December 15, 2011.

The program is an improved version of RPG Maker VX, bringing significant enhancements to map editing, the database system, and scripting. It also introduces new tools, broader file format compatibility, and a much larger collection of graphical assets.

Published by Gotcha Gotcha Games and available for Windows, RPG Maker VX Ace was succeeded by RPG Maker MV in 2015, which introduced multi-platform support and a JavaScript-based engine. However, VX Ace remains popular among independent developers due to its ease of use and the vast number of additional resources available, including DLC packs and community-created scripts.

You can get this maker here!

Trailer

Main features

• Enhanced Map Editor – Introduced support for multiple tilesets, addressing one of RPG Maker VX’s main limitations. Each tile can have individually configured properties.
• Flexible Database – Users can define custom formulas for skills and items, allowing for a greater degree of customization.
• Ruby Scripting System (RGSS3) – Advanced users can modify and create new systems within the game.
• Character Creator – Integrated tool for generating character sprites and portraits without the need for external resources.
• Video Support – RPG Maker VX Ace supports the Ogg Theora format, enabling the inclusion of cutscenes.
• Improved Battle System – Battle backgrounds are now divided into two layers, providing greater visual detail.
• Simple Exporting – The final game can be exported as an executable (.exe), making it easy to share and play on any Windows system.

Differences from RPG Maker VX

RPG Maker VX Ace introduced several improvements and fixes compared to its predecessor:

• Multiple Tilesets – In VX, only one tileset could be used per project; in Ace, multiple tilesets are supported.
• Stat Customization – New default attributes were added (MHP, MMP, ATK, DEF, MAT, MDF, AGI, and LUK).
• Compatibility – VX projects are not compatible with VX Ace, and scripts developed for VX require adaptation to the new RGSS3 system.

Overview

Simple enough for a child; powerful enough for a developer.

RPG Maker VX Ace improves every aspect of RPG creation, making it not only the latest but also the best engine among RPG Makers. With support for multiple tilesets, shadow control, and a flexible feature system, Ace provides the most powerful RPG development tools available.

Ace gives you everything you need to create the game you’ve always dreamed of.

Create your game your way with all the following features:

• An improved map editor to build your world.
• A database for Characters/Enemies/Skills/Equipment with a new flexible and powerful feature system.
• New event options, including the ability to play Ogg Theora videos.
• A larger amount of default resources, including a character creator to design your own characters and faces.

Highlights

• Simple Yet Powerful Tools – RPG Maker VX Ace enhances RPG creation with several new tools. Never before have we offered a service with such user flexibility without requiring programming knowledge. These new tools are not only flexible but also incredibly easy to learn and use, accessible with just a click.
• Improved Default Graphics – RPG Maker VX Ace includes a much larger collection of graphical assets, with four tilesets and many new sprites. It is also compatible with all fan-made resources for RPG Maker VX.
• Export Your Game – Once your project is complete, export it as a portable EXE file that can run on ANY Windows system. Share it with friends, family, or even online.

Trivia

• This was the last program developed by Enterbrain before transitioning to Kadokawa, which launched its successor, RPG Maker MV.
• The initials of the default character names for new VX Ace games spell out “ENTERBRAIN” (Eric, Natalie, Terence, Ernest, Ryoma, Brenda, Rick, Alice, Isabelle, Noah).
• RPG Maker VX Ace was released in Japan in physical stores on December 15, 2011, and later made available for download from the Japanese Amazon website. The tool was released in the West on March 15, 2012.
• A trial version of the engine was released in Japanese, with no time limit, but lacking some features of the full version. This version was also translated into English via a translation package.
• The North American version was released on March 16, 2012, with a 30-day free trial. Those who pre-ordered received a $15 discount, a DS-style graphics pack, and various additional songs and items.

More info and RPG Maker

• RPG Maker VX Ace @ RPG Maker Official – The tool’s official site.
• RPG Maker VX Ace @ Gaming Room – Source, with more info and media. In Portuguese.
• The Last Teleth
• Scroll of Magisha