A good step towards easier video-game authoring tool: phpMMORPG:
phpMMORPG is a Web interface that can be used to create an MMORPG with a back-end which permits users of the interface to create their own games. It features real-time chat, a map editor, a template system, a quest box, PVP, PVE, a loot system, and other functions. Except for the use of "marquee", it uses 100% XHTML 1.0.
Why do I blog this? because every attempt to democratize game authoring is relevant and interesting in terms of "bottom up" innovation. Game companies are so marketing-driven (due to editors which do not like risk) that they develop prequel/sequel/look-alike. Would game authoring tools can recreate the initial burst of innovation video game design lived in the 80s?
Of course the layout is simple and the interaction are fairly limited, but it's a smart step.
Update since this is very relevant, I translated few more information about this DIY MMORPG: the author wants to have the following features:
- real-time chat
- 2d + 3d iso (pixel art) map
- flexible interface with a template engine
- PvP/PvE and quest system
- members management
- integrated forum
For any questions, you'd better contact the author, a 20 years old french guy using this form. Support his work, it's of great interest for the community!