Let's just hope that this investment for $0.00 is worth it.

The differences between this version and the newer version are:
+ price(compared to VX Ace)
+ engine boots in 5 seconds on my laptop (might be the fastest game engine startup available on Steam by a wide margin)
- default resource map content less versatile(compared to VX Ace)
- smallest map size larger than smallest map size available on newest version(VX Ace)
- no Character Generator
- no Shadow Pencil
- no Region Edit mode
- no 1/8 map button display
- no by default facial closeups when speaking to a character(compared to VX Ace)
- scripting is version Ruby GSS 1, VX version is Ruby GSS 3
- no right click quick transfer option (map to map connections... neccessary to do it the long way each time)
- no video imports?(haven't tested this yet, but the reason I got VX Ace was because it could bring in video files - videos for storyline or whatever else - Ogg format)

Other than all that... it works. Both engines have Android compatibility through an Android app on Google Play.

The only RPG maker worth buying for the most experienced aside from 2003. Not everyone would agree with this though. The reason I claim this is because RPG Maker XP gives you the ability to go beyond what the other RPG makers allow you to do. I have used all the other RPG makers and gave them way more than a fair chance and none of them, (except 2003) allow the deeper stuff you can do with XP and 2003. I prefer to use my copy outside of Steam on Windows XP but because of modern needs and programming, I started to use my Steam copy again on Windows 10 so I'm able to later publish what I've made. Anyway, if you want an RPG Maker where you can program outside the maker to later ween into the maker, than RPG Maker XP is your best bet, but you'd have to have extreme patience and know how to use other programs (i.e. hex editing) If this review goes over your head then I would recommend the much newer RPG makers because unlike XP, they're much easier to deal with. You can still get a whole lot out of newer makers, but for those with experience beyond just programming, XP is more than enough.

* Year 2004: RPG Maker XP released
* Year 2007: Chinese version released
* Year 2012: Introduce by my colleague & started game design
* XX hours later: Game length can go up to 4 hours
* XXX hours later: Finish 24 linking maps & 21 unique NPC
* 8 person feedbacks later: Understanding issue & keep patching up
* 9 person grading later: Goal achieved & satisfied
* Year 2013: Started teaching in Holiday Class
* Year 2014: Share my game to other Teachers
* Year 2016: Distribute my game to another state
* Year 2017: Replacing this software into RPG Maker MV
* Year 2020: Replacing my career into another field
* Year 2024: Got it free from Steam, Thanks!
* 0.5 hours later: Recalling a lot of memories... Worth all the hours on my footprint

lets be real we're all here for pokemon essentials

This product is worth way more than what you pay. Fun and easy to use as soon as you learn the basics.
HOWEVER before buying it read this.

RPG Maker XP is a younger version than the VX. Unlike the VX the XP does not have expensive DLCs.
The RPG Maker XP comes with a bunch of sprites and sounds to enjoy as soon as you get it. A bit limited though.
That is because the RPG Maker XP is a tool for the creative people, who make their own sprites, sounds etc.
If you are a creative person with patience this could be the tool for you!

Overall RPG Maker XP is hard to use at first BUT as soon as you get slightly used to the tools you will be greatly rewarded.
Took me 2 hours to learn the basics. Note: I'm not the sharpest knife in the shed, so you will probobly et it way before I did.
If you are still confused and fustrated there are many guides on the web that tells you how to use RPG Maker XP.
Even small things that will be done will feel awesome for you.

And BEST of all! You can share the games you make with your friends!
As soon as you learn the basics you will be greatly rewarded and feel awesome about it and yourself. Take pride in your games. Tell your stories and let your tales grow far and wide with your friends.

I give the RPG Maker XP a 10/10. It is very fun and easy to use. And the creative people have alot of space to challange themselves with.

If you are not the creative person, or have creative friends I would recomend you buy the VX and some DLCs.

It's alright.

Be honest... you bought this for Pokemon essentials didn't you?

miro is quaking in his ♥♥♥♥♥♥♥ boots he knows I'm coming fear and hunger 3 terminal illness will dominate the world

free to play, made my first rpg on this. love it so much