Stage

At a glance

• Editor score
  6.5 / 10
• Pricing
  Free plan
• Best for
  2D mobile-robot and sensor simulation
• Free plan
  Yes
• Paid from
  Free
• ROS support
  Yes
• Facts checked
  24 Sep 2026

• Where it wins

  • Models sonar, infrared rangers, laser rangefinders, and cameras
  • Offers a C++ library for customized simulations
  • Supports Player and provides a ROS node

• Where it doesn't

  • Simulation is focused on 2D/2.5D worlds
  • Desktop platforms are Linux and macOS
  • Uses relatively simple models rather than detailed 3D simulation

Our verdict on Stage

Stage is a standalone robot simulator and C++ library for creating customizable simulation environments. It represents mobile robots, sensors, actuators, and other objects in 2D/2.5D virtual worlds. That focus suits researchers and developers working on mobile-robot experiments or controller development, especially when relatively simple, computationally inexpensive models are appropriate. The published project details identify Linux and macOS desktop support and describe Stage as free and open source.

Its model range covers sensors such as sonar, infrared rangers, laser rangefinders, and cameras, alongside actuators including grippers and mobile robot bases. Stage can run as a plugin for Player, which provides virtual robots through Player’s networked interface; a ROS package also provides a node that uses Stage. The C++ library lets teams build customized simulations, while the standalone simulator supports creating environments without framing the product solely as an integration component. These capabilities make Stage a fit for work centered on mobile robots and sensor behavior across its supported world types.

The key trade-off is scope: Stage is designed around 2D/2.5D worlds and comparatively simple models, so projects requiring detailed 3D simulation should consider alternatives built for that need. It is also a desktop product with Linux and macOS listed as platforms, rather than a broadly stated deployment range. Choose Stage when open-source access, its C++ library, and Player or ROS support align with a research or development workflow; skip it if 3D environments or a different platform are central requirements.

Your product? Our editors can test Stage in depth and publish a review, labelled as paid · from $149/mo →

Stage pricing

Stage fact sheet

Stage integrations

Stage lists 2 integrations on its own site.

• Player
• ROS

Alternatives to Stage

• RoboDKRoboDK combines controller-specific offline programming with simulation and virtual commissioning.9.2
• Yaskawa MotoSim EG-VRCA focused desktop tool for programming and validating Yaskawa robot cells offline.8.8
• OCTOPUZOffline robot programming with CAD import, path planning, reachability checks, and controller post-processing.8.5

See all Stage alternatives →

Featured on iTechGuides

Stage is listed in our Robotic Simulation Software directory. Add the badge to your site — it links back to this page.

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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026

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Last updated 7 Oct 2026 · How we research and update