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Open source GameMaker alternatives

Top Game Engines like GameMaker

The most popular alternative to GameMaker is Godot Engine, which has a free version. Other great alternatives to GameMaker are GDevelop.

Most alternatives to GameMaker are in the Game Engines category, compared here by price, platform and features.

GameMaker alternatives
AllFreeOpen source
2 apps

All GameMaker alternatives

  1. Godot is a free, open source game engine released under the MIT license, with no royalties or fees. It provides dedicated 2D and 3D renderers, a scene and node system, its own Python-like GDScript language plus C# support, and a lightweight editor for Windows, macOS and Linux. Games export to desktop, mobile and the web, while console ports go through third-party partners. It is backed by the Godot Foundation.

    7 Godot Engine alternatives

    Pros

    • MIT licensed, with no royalties, fees or revenue thresholds
    • Lightweight editor with a dedicated 2D renderer, not 3D in disguise
    • Easy-to-learn GDScript, C# support and a clean scene and node system

    Cons

    • Console ports have to go through third-party partners
    • Asset store and third-party ecosystem are smaller than Unity’s
    • High-end 3D rendering still trails Unreal and Unity
    Cost / License
    FreeOpen source
    Categories
  2. GDevelop is a free, open source game engine that lets creators build 2D and 3D games with an event-based visual logic system instead of code. It runs in the browser or as a desktop app, includes templates, an asset store and ready-made behaviors for platformers, physics and pathfinding, and exports to web, Windows, macOS, Linux, Android and iOS. Optional subscriptions add cloud builds and other services.

    7 GDevelop alternatives

    Pros

    • Free and open source, usable in the browser or as a desktop app
    • Event-based logic and ready-made behaviors avoid writing code
    • Exports to web, desktop, Android and iOS

    Cons

    • 3D support is newer and less mature than its 2D tools
    • Cloud builds and some services require a subscription
    • Complex games can outgrow the event system
    Cost / License
    FreemiumOpen source
    Categories

GameMaker vs its alternatives at a glance

Pricing, platforms and the key features of GameMaker, compared with its most popular alternatives.

GameMaker vs its alternatives at a glance
AppPricingPlatforms2D gamesConsole exportTemplatesVisual scripting
GameMakerFreemiumWindows, Mac
Godot EngineFreeOpen sourceWindows, Mac, Linux
GDevelopFreemiumOpen sourceWeb, Windows, Mac, Linux

GameMaker alternatives: frequently asked questions

What is the best alternative to GameMaker?

The most popular alternative to GameMaker is Godot Engine: Free and open source engine for 2D and 3D games. Other great alternatives are GDevelop.

Is there a free alternative to GameMaker?

Yes, 2 alternatives are free or have a free plan, including Godot Engine and GDevelop.

Is there an open source alternative to GameMaker?

Yes, 2 open source alternatives are listed, including Godot Engine and GDevelop.

Is GameMaker free?

GameMaker has a free plan, with paid plans that unlock more features.

Compare GameMaker with its alternatives

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