Man, 3D game studio looks SA-WEET! I mean, that's the first time I think I've ever seen games made with a game maker tool that actually look decent. I'm not sure I'd go with it for your idea, but I just wanted to say that. :)
Anyway, whatever you do, stray away from "The 3D Game Maker"; I know it wasn't on your list, but make sure it doesn't get on there somehow. It's terrible... trust me. :\

Ogre's a good idea if you want to focus on the 'engine' aspect as opposed to the 3D aspect (OGRE is only a 3D engine, unlike some of the others).

For something like a FFVII game, you're looking at a pre-rendered background mixed with realtime characters.

Odin

Although Blitz3D isn't realy a 3D engine, it doesn't take much to get one working...even 3D characters atop a pre-rendered 2D background isn't that difficult.

But as far as modeling software goes, try Wings 3D. Its free and far easier to learn then Blender.

Thank you so much for all the help :D And I'm going to check out that devmaster site. You have all been so helpful! I just have a question -- how does one write their own engine? I wouldn't know where to begin with that.

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Original post by Glazed_Donuts Thank you so much for all the help :D And I'm going to check out that devmaster site. You have all been so helpful! I just have a question -- how does one write their own engine? I wouldn't know where to begin with that.

With a compiler, graphics API, and a lot of patience :) We use DirectX or OpenGL to interface the graphics hardware; 3d engines like the ones mentioned here build on top of those by adding scene hierarchy management and the like. It's a bit of a masochistic hobby.

It sounds so confusing @_@ I think it'd take me years just to learn all the languages and put them all together to write an engine LOL

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Original post by Dancin_Fool I just gotta say, it's a breath of fresh air to see someone working on a non mmo. :D

Hey, we've been working on a non-MMO RPG for over 2 years already. Never heard of us? [sad]


Anyway, best of luck to you Glazed_Donuts! I can definitely tell you that it will take a very long time to do it alone, but the fact that you've already decided to use an existing engine rather than code your own (like we did) means you're already well on your way. [wink]

No! I never heard of you guys :P
Your game looks awesome so far! I checked the screenshots! I love old school games like that and I really hope you guys finish it. Good luck with your project and thanks for your kind words and encouragement! :)