Phaser.io vs RPGMaker

This is one of the most developed frameworks right now.

You can choose WebGL or classic HTML canvas element for game rendering.

There are plenty of great learning resources available for Phaser.io.

Most tasks are done just using 2 or 3 lines of code.

If you're browsing Slant, you probably already have a JavaScript enabled browser, which is most of what you need to get started learning JavaScript. The requirement to run a server locally on your computer while developing might make things a little more difficult

All you need to do is attach Phaser script to a HTML page even without installing any extensions.

Phaser provides a similar approach as to that of Flash games, where you can load assets and place them on a stage, and even improves upon the shortcomings of actionscript. It is very easy to shift from flash to HTML5 development because of this approach.

You can use it in popular online editors like replit, codandbox, etc.

The creator of phaser(photonstorm) has given the older(Phaser 2.0) source code to the community for their own maintenance, and has made Phaser 3.0 with a different style and approach, trying to make it easier for beginners to learn.

It's possible to create a game with absolutely no art or coding skills, so even complete beginners can make something.

The engine has seen multiple iterations since 1995, so a large online community exists that is always willing to help each other out.

With a script editor that uses a modified version of Ruby, it's possible to go well beyond the traditional RPG with this engine. Note: XP and VX use Ruby, the latest version "MV" uses Javascript for scripting.

It's possible to use custom editors from the community, edit libraries,include libraries,etc (MV Only)

MV supports HTML5 exports, so it is easier than ever to make your game work on iOS, android, OSX,Linux or Windows.

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.

MV Mapping uses an additional layer to create better depth.

You can now HTML5 export your projects, so you could theoretically host your game on your webserver, and have your friends play the game without ever having to install a single thing.

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).