The current rave right now is the Neo Message System from what I've noticed.
But then, what IF you can mix the Neo Message System with some picture files to
make it visually better? Make your windows much more detailed... (although the one in the demo isn't)
If you've got Photoshop skills, don't put them to waste on only sprites and maps.
Put them to use in the Message System too!
Here is my Picture Message Window System that I've been using in my games.
Now you've got a few more features in your message system:
1) Floating animated messagebacks.
2) Personalized Character Windows
3) Fading In/Out Message Windows (instead of suddenly appearing/disappearing)
4) More detailed Messagebacks. No more plain and lame message backs.
This is the system in my game...
NOTE: I HAVE NOT ADDED MY PERSONAL MESSAGE BACKGROUND INTO THIS DEMO TO PREVENT OTHERS FROM USING THEM.