Stage review

Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026

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.

Stage pros and cons

• 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

Stage fact sheet, pricing and score →

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Last updated 7 Oct 2026 · How we research and update