Recs.
Updated
RPG Maker is a 2D game making application geared toward Role-Playing Games (though other genres have been made). The platform has seen several releases over the span of more than 10 years and has primarily used Ruby as the code core for scripting.
The latest version of RPG Maker, MV, converted the core script code to Javascript, dropped the requirement to distribute the RTP with finished titles, and provided native exportation across a wider array of systems to include OSX, iOS, and Android.
SpecsUpdate
Pros
Pro Large and active community
The engine has seen multiple iterations since 1995, so a large online community exists that is always willing to help each other out.
Pro Inbuilt database and multplayer plugins, providing you the scalfolding to customising your projects with ease
The inbuilt database which binds to game saves or can be made persist allows great power within your logic. Also a plugin called 'Alpha.net' provides multiplayer. This combination can allow great customisation of the engine, allowing a powerful 2D game to be made with little to no coding experience.
Pro A cheap license that allows using the software commercially
There are several versions of RPG maker, with MV being the latest and most fully featured: MV ($79.99), VX Ace ($69.99), VX ($59.99) and XP ($24.99), 2003 ($19.99).
Cons
Con No built-in realtime battle system
RPG Maker series has only turn based battle systems, unless scripts/Plugins made by the community are used.
Recommendations
Comments
Out of Date Pros + Cons
Con Engine imposes arbitrary limits
Engine imposes arbitrary limits. For example, it only supports resolution up 640x480 in VX ace, and 816x624 in MV.
Con XP and VX are Windows only
The latest version: MV is also available for Mac OSX and Linux.