GameMaker

Last updated: 2025-10-12

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Summary
  • Excellent, accessible, and intuitive for 2D game development
  • Powerful and feature-rich engine with free version
  • Comprehensive learning resources available
  • Poor for 3D game development
  • Frequent breaking updates and problematic monetization
  • Confusing interface and difficult GML language
GameMaker header

Categories

Game Development Tool2D Game CreationCross-Platform DeploymentLevel EditorDebuggingMonetization IntegrationSandbox Creation

Emotions

Satisfaction38%Frustration14%Disappointment9%Excitement7%Anger3%
Reviews
(sample size)
750
Helpful reviews
56%
Unhelpful reviews
44%
Protest reviews
0%
Positive points
816
Negative points
353
Gameplay points
134
Perf. points
7
Rec. points
148
Misc points
113
Point
Excellent for 2D Game Development
Description
GameMaker is widely praised as one of the best engines for 2D game creation, suitable for various styles like pixel art, platformers, and RPGs. Many users, including those with experience in other engines, find it superior for 2D projects due to its speed, convenience, and comprehensive tools.
Importance
68%
Highly Accessible and Intuitive
Description
The engine is consistently described as easy to learn and use, even for complete beginners without prior coding experience. Its intuitive interface, simple language (GML), and drag-and-drop visual scripting make game development approachable and enjoyable.
Importance
68%
Powerful and Feature-Rich Engine
Description
Despite its simplicity, GameMaker is considered a powerful and robust engine capable of handling both small indie projects and larger professional 2D games. It offers a flexible backbone with extensive customization options and a continuous stream of new features.
Importance
24%
Comprehensive Learning Resources
Description
Users benefit from extensive and high-quality learning resources, including in-depth official documentation, helpful video tutorials, and a large, active community. These resources cater to all skill levels, from novice to advanced.
Importance
20%
Free Version is Feature-Rich
Description
The free version of GameMaker is highly valued for offering essential features without significant limitations, making it perfect for hobbies, learning, and even developing non-commercial games. It allows for web/desktop export and does not impose splash screens or watermarks.
Importance
8%
Integrated Sprite Editor
Description
The engine includes a decent built-in sprite editor with useful features like nine-slices, which saves time and aids in creating pixelated or simple visual assets directly within the development environment.
Importance
5%
Efficient and Organized IDE
Description
The Integrated Development Environment (IDE) is well-organized, light, and runs smoothly even on older hardware. Its programming tabs and editor are praised for their functionality and contribution to an efficient workflow.
Importance
5%