Hiya

C4: For a total neophyte at C++, it might be a bit much at the start. That said, however, from what I gather the code is "well organised, logical and easy to understand". So, if you were to jump into the deep end and learn C++ 'as you go', I would give C4 a shot. At least with it you won't be trying to figure out C++ *and* trying to figure out what the heck the creator of the program was trying to do.

BV: I've only just scratched the surface with it. Theoretically, it is easy to use. From my first impressions, it looks fairly well organised from an artists standpoint (my forte). Importing is pretty easy, the world editor is a bit 'odd' if you ask me...gonna take some getting used to (strange placement of some tools, and a couple of naming conventions I'd have to get used to). However, I haven't used it with Windows XP 64-bit...so I guess I'll have to see. (I just switched to XP-64 from my old Windows 2000 Pro).

There is another 3d engine that I'm keeping my eye on...haven't really used it though...called "Truevision3D" ( http://www.truevision3d.com/home.php ) The pricing is Free, $150, or $500. I've heard some good things about it.

Another program, more specifically geared towards MMORPG's is the "Nebula Device" ( http://www.radonlabs.de/nebula.html ) ...but you will definitly need to learn C++ with this one too. I tried their 'Project Nomads' game...I was quite impressed with their environment rendering. Nice stuff!

Lastly, you could take a gander at "Neverax Engine" (NeL... http://www.nevrax.org/tikiwiki/tiki-index.php?page=HomePage )It is another one that is focused towards MMORPG's...but it is also GNU licenced! (re: free)

Oh, and if "money is no object", the "Quest3D" engine looks fantabulous! ( http://www.quest3d.com/index.php?id=15 ) Check out the example demos!