1) I got used to the editor almost instantly without reading any tutorials. I like to mess around without reading with all the apps I use and the editor on Unity isn't complicated to learn (having modded games with similar editors) and get into. Overall, it's pretty good.
2) My guess is that the trial is the Indie version so the Water looks pretty good even without reflection or refraction. I don't really see why reflective/refractive water is Pro only but still, Indie water looks nice enough (from a distance). Again, using the editor to modify the Water on the fly is fun. Changes take place instantly in front of you, no need to recompile.
3) Here's what kills the whole scene and makes this a really lame move that will end up being the reason most people won't buy it. Shadows. The demo Island level SERIOUSLY needs them, esp. the dynamic shadows. The level looks like the island level once posted here in 3dgs forums (made using 3dgs), only except the lack of shadows make it fuck ugly. You'd think that the shadows bit isn't a big deal but trust me, it looks like a Quake 2 level (umm, actually worse.. Farcry without shadows?).
You need Unity Pro ($1500) vs GameStudio's $199 version to get the basic shaders and effects gamers expect out of a 3D Game in the first place.
The Mac support is a bonus but do remember that you WILL need a Mac to test the end product eventually. Add another expense to the list in the end. The editor is nice but nothing I can't live without. In the end you will need all bells and whistles to make your 3D game look current-gen. You can obviously do that with Unity Indie, I am sure, but it will require a lot of hacks and work on your end to make it look good enough.
ANYWAYS, this is just a basic viewpoint. I will still try it out for 30 days before making my final decision at least. To those who already own 3dgs license, please use the trial before purchasing anything (I see on their forum a lot of people have purchased it instantly).
I am definitely interested in seeing how Conitec prioritizes the updates/features after this. If they keep the price less and features (all shaders esp.) available in 199 range, I don't see any reason to jump the ship for most developers.
EDIT: To those who want to know about the splash screen in Indie version (like A7 Commercial). Unity adds the splash screen (startup logo) plus a Unity logo on bottom right of the screen for some time (before fading away).
