if you can afford c4, a decent modelling tool and know quite some c++, don't need cross platform or in-browser gaming, i guess c4 is the way to go.

shiva is an allround tool, basicly for smaller games, featuring cross platform and inbrowser gaming, neat shaders and decent speed. the language is easier than what you normally get in 3d game packages. but if you don't like the editor, leave it, you won't get happy.

irrlicht is fast, customizable, open source, crossplatform, constantly in decelopment. first choice for cross platform gaming. requires quite some learning and does not come with a usable shadow system out of the box.

gameCore is constantly delaying and nobody knows when it's finally there and how the docs will be.

i cannot comment on torque or ogre-based engines like neoAxis.