Question: Does RPG Maker require coding?

Answer

RPG Maker is a game development engine specifically designed for creating role-playing games. One of its key features is that it allows users to build games without any programming knowledge. Here are some details:

Visual Interface:

RPG Maker provides a visual interface where you can create maps, characters, and set up events using pre-made assets and logic. You can design complex interactions, puzzles, and storylines by selecting options and filling in fields.

Event System:

The engine uses an event system for in-game interactions, where most gameplay mechanics can be created through 'Events'. These are created by assigning commands from a list of available actions within the editor such as moving characters, starting battles, changing game variables, etc.

Scripting (Optional):

For more advanced customizations or to create new game mechanics not supported out of the box, RPG Maker does allow for scripting using a language called Ruby (in older versions like VX Ace) or JavaScript (in newer versions like MV and MZ). Here's an example of a simple script call in RPG Maker MV/MZ:

var actor = $gameActors.actor(1);
actor.setHp(actor.mhp);

This code would fully heal the first actor in your party.

Plugins:

Moreover, there are many plugins available created by the community that you can add to your project to extend the functionality without needing to code yourself.

In summary, no, RPG Maker does not require coding for most of its functionalities and is quite accessible for beginners. However, for those who want to go beyond the basics and customize their games further, learning to script with JavaScript (for MV and MZ) can open up many more possibilities.