I think .NET is the best option for a community project. GameMaker doesn't have the power we need, and C++ is too advanced for most.

Managed DirectX is much easier to use than the traditional APIs, so hopefully we'll be on our way to writing actual game code in no time.

I'll reply later this week with the basic engine architecture and post the current build. We should set up a custom build utility for people who don't have a C# GUI. I'll look into that.

Until then, let's start discussing the storyline, feature ideas, etc.

-Nag