You could also use something like Multi-Media Fusion, Games Factory, or Game Maker. It would take a long time to learn how to use these but I think they could offer more flexability than RPGMaker (at least, the RPG Maker I remember from 5 or 6 years ago).

Adventure Games Studio also can be used to create RPGs, although you need to use the AGS-scripting language to do so.

In my opinion, if you're going to learn a scripting language built into one of these game makers (ie. RUBY or the AGS-script), I say learn BASIC or even C++. It takes alot more brainpower and determination, but it DEFINITELY offers far more flexibility and room for originality than any game maker can offer.