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GameMaker

A cross-platform game engine enabling 2D and limited 3D game development using visual scripting or a proprietary coding language

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+Room EditorAllows the design and arrangement of game levels, helping users define scenes and manage game flow.
+Object EditorEnables the creation and management of game objects to support assigning behaviors and organizing interactive elements.
+Sprite ManagementSupports importing, editing, and animating image assets helping users in handling visual elements for characters and backgrounds.
+Tileset SupportProvides tools to build levels using tiles helping users streamline level design by reusing graphical segments
+Sequence EditorOffers an environment to set up animations and cutscenes, helping with control over event sequences and transitions within a game.
+DebuggerTracks code execution and detects errors assisting in troubleshooting and refining game logic.
+Networking ToolsProvides components to manage online interactions for creating multiplayer or connected gameplay experiences.
+In-App Purchase IntegrationSupports including purchase options in a game to add revenue streams directly within the application.
+Push NotificationsAllows sending alerts and updates to players.
+GML Code EditorOffers a workspace for writing custom game code using GameMaker Language (GML), granting control over game behavior through scripting.
+GML Visual InterfaceProvides a drag-and-drop system to construct game logic, presenting an alternative to manual scripting.
+Cross-Platform ExportEnables exporting games to multiple target platforms from a single codebase, simplifying the process of reaching diverse audiences.
+Workspace CustomizationAllows modification of the interface layout and tool arrangement, tailoring the development environment to individual workflow needs.
+Sound ManagementSupports the import and synchronization of audio files with game events, ensuring that sound effects and music integrate with gameplay.
+Publishing ToolsFacilitates packaging and exporting a game into executable formats and online platforms, easing the process of game distribution.
-Reduced Scalability for Large ProjectsThe engine’s design may hinder managing extensive assets and complex interactions, restricting the growth and management of larger projects.
-2D-Only DevelopmentThe engine is structured mainly for 2D game creation, which prevents users from fully venturing into 3D game development.
-Non-Commercial UsageThe free version does not allow to commercially distribute the product created and generate revenue

Platform

Social

         

System Requirements

Version ↓
#MinimumRecommended
1
  • Windows 10/11
  • macOS Monterey
  • Linux
  • 64-bit only
  • Windows 10/11
  • macOS Sonoma
  • Linux
2
Dual Core CPU
Quad Core CPU
3
2GB RAM
8GB RAM
4
OpenGL 4-compliant onboard graphics
Dedicated graphics card
5
  • 3GB space
  • HDD
  • More than 3GB space
  • SSD
6
Connect to internet at least once a month
Always-on internet connection

Ratings

4.47
5

Capterra
4.4
5
based on 96 reviews
PCMag
4.5
5
based on professional's opinion
Steam Store
4.5
5
based on 2093 reviews

Written in

C++, C

Initial Release

15 Novemeber 1999

Repository

GameMaker being a proprietary software, its source code is not publicly hosted.

Alternatives

Game Creation System
Construct   Phaser   Open 3D Engine   Roblox  
Game Engine
Construct   Unreal Engine   Phaser   Open 3D Engine   Unity   Godot  

Notes

  • Variants 1 2 3 4:
    • Free: A non-commercial license which supports Desktop Export (Windows, macOS, and Linux), Web Export (HTML5), Mobile Exports (iOS, Android, Amazon Fire, Android TV, and tvOS).
    • Professional: A one-time purchase license that allows everything in Free version, plus commercial license, allowing to distribute the creations for money.
    • Enterprise: A subscription offering that allows everything in Professional version, plus Console Exports (PlayStation 4 and 5, Xbox One, Series X|S, and Nintendo Switch) and access to GameMaker’s Source Code.