What Programs do YOU use to make your machinima?

Start out by downloading the WeGame client or buying Fraps to record the game.

Then "buy" a movie-editing software, arr. Sony Vegas, Adobe Premiere, etc. Google 'em for specifics and read it's features to buy the right one for you. (Example; if you're doing WoW machinima via Model viewer, you'll need one that has keying to remove the blue/green background.)

A microphone if you're doing voices too. Then an audio-editing software. Audacity works good and its free.

Can't think of much more...it all depends on what game and style your machinima is gonna be. Just google the programs I've listed and you should be fine. If you have any more questions, feel free to ask.

I use the Adobe programs, but its really expensive. i got it from my mums work.

I use the full version of fraps to record, audacity for any audio fixes/additions, and premiere elements to throw it all together. I used to use MS movie editor, but it was a pain in the butt. Premiere elements wasn't heinously expensive - I think my husband was able to pick it up, bundled with photoshop elements, for $199 (or it might have been $99), last December. It was his Christmas present to me :)

Photoshop elements is GOOD. but my mom got the CS4 stuff.

Record: Camtasis, Wegame, Fraps
Edit: Windows movie maker, Adobe Premiere pro, Adobe After Effects
Audio: Audacity
Artwork: Photoshop, paint

Record: Camtasia Studio, Wegame, Fraps, HyperCam 2
Edit: Windows movie maker, Adobe Premiere pro, Adobe After Effects, Sony Vegas
Audio: Audacity, WavePad
Artwork: Photoshop, GIMP,

Adobe Premiere Pro and Adobe After Effects, got them about $700 off from CampusTech.com.

Wow, thanks a lot guys!
I really appreciate the help!
I'm looking at these programs right now.

I use WeGame for recording, Sony Vegas 8.0c Pro for editing and Adobe After Effect CS4 for the ultimate feeling.