Just starting out and really, REALLY need help

#1 Max is better... it just costs $3,500 compared to Milkshape's $20.

As for tips, it all really depends on what you know and what you already have. If you have an engine already, great. If not, then how much programming do you know? If you've got a decent understanding of C++, Torque might be a good choice. If not, there are plenty of others, such as Blitz, DarkBasic, etc. Or maybe you might want to hire a programmer.

But, yes, a little more information on what you're trying to accomplish would be very helpful.

#2 Thanks for the help well, i don't have anything thing yet. i have about 5,879.06 cents saved up for this game i'm making. but ihave NO help. and really the only thing i know is that i have this Killier rpg game on paper just need help putting it into game form do u think you can help?

#3 Wings3D is a fantastic modeller, and Blender can handle just about everything else from rigging to texturing to animation and rendering. Both are free.

#4 I can try to get you pointed in the right direction. However, game dev is a ton of work and I've already got a project I'm working on. Having everything planned out is a huge bonus, and will greatly help with getting people interested in your game. Especially with RPG's where a computer isn't required to play so it's easy to guage how good of a game it'll make.

So, it really all comes down to how much programming and modeling experience you have, how much dedication you have (three years of planning... yea, you're dedicated), and how good you are at infusing others with the same dedication.

@Teck

I pointed our modeler towards Blender... he just about threw his computer out the window. It can be a little difficult to use apparently. Can't beat the bang for your buck though.

#5 @Steve:
Yes, Blender has a fantastically odd interface, and it took me several "I give up!"s before I really hunkered down and started getting used to it. Once you get a little more accustomed to the interface, though, it's really an amazing piece of work.
See what your modeller thinks of Wings. :)

#6 Oooh... Build in UV mapping... yes, he'd appreciate that. His current system of using Milkshape and Unwrap3D tends to take three or four tries to get right. And then Milkshape randomly deletes all of the animations... I'll be sure to point it out to him.