YouCanBuildTech
Game / Builders
GameMaker — 2D Game Engine (Neutral Summary)
2D-first workflow with drag-and-drop actions and GML when you need code. Export to desktop, web, and mobile; console targets via enterprise licensing.
Download for Windows/macOS (Linux IDE in beta). Free for non-commercial on non-console platforms; commercial & console options available.
Why it stands out
Fast 2D iteration with built-in editors (sprites/tiles/rooms), DnD for beginners, and GML for advanced logic.
Who it’s for
Solo creators, small teams, and educators prioritizing 2D speed-to-prototype with a soft path from visual logic to code.
Workflow
Design gameplay using **Drag-and-Drop (DnD)** blocks; mix or convert to **GML** when you need more control. Room/tile editors and asset tools are integrated for fast iteration.
- DnD for logic; GML for depth
- Sprite/tileset/room editors built in
Export Targets
Desktop (Windows, macOS, Linux), Web (HTML5), and Mobile (Android, iOS) out of the box; console export (Xbox, PlayStation, Switch) via enterprise tier/partners.
- Fast web/desktop packaging
- Console via enterprise programs
Tiers & Access
Free for non-commercial use on non-console platforms; commercial one-time license available; enterprise for consoles. Download installers for Windows/macOS (Linux IDE beta).
Typical Use Cases
2D platformers, action-arcade, puzzle, and mobile-first titles with quick iteration and small teams.
Considerations
- Primarily 2D-focused; 3D is not a core emphasis.
- Console exports require enterprise programs and platform SDK setup.
- As projects grow, code organization in GML becomes important for maintainability.
Learn & Try
Start with the official download, then follow export guides for desktop/web/mobile.
Next Steps
- Download and open a platformer or top-down template.
- Prototype core loop in DnD; convert critical pieces to GML as needed.
- Build a desktop or web export to test performance.