GameMaker Studio

July, 22nd 2024 - 216 MB - Demo

Latest Version

GameMaker Studio 2024.06.2.162 LATEST
Review by

Daniel Leblanc
Operating System

Windows 7 64 / Windows 8 64 / Windows 10 64 / Windows 11
User Rating

Click to vote
Author / Product

YoYo Games Ltd. / External Link
Filename

GameMaker-Installer-2024.06.2.162.exe

GameMaker Studio is the latest and greatest incarnation of GameMaker! It has everything you need to take your idea from concept to finished game.

With no barriers to entry and powerful functionality, the tool is the ultimate 2D development environment! Making game development accessible to everyone means taking away the barriers to getting started.

Using intuitive ‘Drag and Drop’ development environment you can have your game up and running in a matter of minutes without ever having to write any code! GameMaker’s built-in language (GML) helps you learn to program as you go and not jump in at the deep end of coding.

Completely free, no credit card required
Make your first game with our free tutorials
Upload your games to GX.games

Using a single development workflow the app allows you to export your game directly to Windows desktop, macOS, Ubuntu, Android, iOS, fireTV, Android TV, Microsoft UWP, HTML5, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One. Requiring a big budget to create beautiful looking games is now a thing of the past. GameMaker - The Ultimate 2D Game Development Tool allows you to implement AAA game features hassle-free.

Bring your games to life with 2D physics, create a thriving player base with cross-platform network play, and create stunning visual effects using shaders.

Highlights

Backward Compatible
Import your GameMaker: Studio projects directly into Studio 2 and have them ready to run in a matter of minutes.

YoYo Account
It uses your YoYo Account to provide a single login for all your game making needs.

Tutorials
With integrated tutorials, you can have your learning materials docked directly in your workspace.

Laptop Mode
For all users who develop on laptops, an efficient working process has been developed that does not interfere with development.

Skinning
Customize your development environment by choosing from predefined skins or creating your own.

Docking
Organize your workspace by docking your tool windows where you want them.

Object Editor
With a unique structure and workflow, it has never been easier to manage the objects within your game.

Script Editor
With tabs and the ability to split the editor, you can work with multiple files without having a window for each.

Superior Workflow
Drag and Drop like never before, create a game you want without ever writing any code.

Library
Choose what you need from an extensive library of events and actions to sculpt the game you desire.

Code Preview
Learn how to program by viewing the code behind DnD™ actions and take your games to the next level.

Language
Based on the C programming language, GML gives you all the power of other programming languages while being easy to learn.

Layers
Take control of how objects are ordered within your rooms and draw sprites directly without the need for an object.

Tile Brushes
Make repetition a breeze by creating a group of tiles and drawing them directly to the room.

Inheritance
Add variety quickly to your projects by sharing common code and resources.

Brush Based Editing
Create a brush from any section of your image simply and efficiently with an amazing new editor.

Animation Support
Bring your sprites to life with a touch of motion and take your games to the next level.

Extensions
Extend the power of Game Maker by incorporating third-party libraries and SDKs.

Marketplace
The one-stop-shop for developers to access all of the amazing game making resources created by members of the Game Maker community.

Features

Drag-and-Drop Interface: Ideal for beginners, GameMaker Studio’s drag-and-drop system allows users to design games without any prior coding knowledge.
GameMaker Language (GML): For more advanced users, GML offers a powerful scripting language to customize game logic and mechanics.
Cross-Platform Export: Create games for multiple platforms including Windows, macOS, Linux, HTML5, iOS, Android, and more.
Integrated Development Environment (IDE): An all-in-one environment for creating, testing, and deploying games.
Marketplace: Access a wide range of assets, extensions, and plugins from the Marketplace.
Room Editor: Design game levels and environments with an intuitive room editor.
Sprite Editor: Create and animate characters, objects, and backgrounds directly within the software.
Sound Mixer: Integrate and manage audio effects and background music seamlessly.
Collision System: Implement complex collision and interaction systems between game objects.
Debugger: Identify and fix issues in your game code with an in-built debugging tool.

User Interface

Workspace: A customizable area where users can organize their workflow and manage multiple tasks simultaneously.

Object Editor: Easily add, modify, and control game objects and their properties.

Code Editor: A robust editor with syntax highlighting, code completion, and other features to facilitate writing GML scripts.

Resources Tree: Organize and access all game assets, including sprites, sounds, scripts, and objects.

Output Window: Monitor real-time output and debug information during game testing.

Installation and Setup

Download: Visit the official website and download the installer for your operating system.
Install: Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation process.
Activate: Upon first launch, you’ll need to sign in with a YoYo Games account. Free and paid licenses are available.
Configure: Set up your development environment by choosing your preferred language and layout settings.

How to Use

Create a Project: Start a new project by selecting a template or a blank project.
Add Assets: Use the sprite editor to create game graphics and animations.
Design Levels: Utilize the room editor to build game levels and environments.
Program Logic: Implement game mechanics and behaviors using the drag-and-drop interface or GML scripts.
Test: Run your game within the IDE to identify and fix bugs.
Export: Once satisfied, export your game to the desired platform using the cross-platform export feature.

FAQ

Can I make 3D games with GameMaker Studio?
Yes, while GameMaker Studio is primarily a 2D game engine, it does support basic 3D graphics and functions. However, it may not be as advanced as other dedicated 3D game engines.

Is GameMaker Studio suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The drag-and-drop interface is perfect for beginners, and there are extensive tutorials and resources available to help new users get started.

What programming languages does GameMaker Studio use?
It uses its own scripting language called GameMaker Language (GML), which is tailored for game development.

Can I publish games to multiple platforms with GameMaker Studio?
Yes, it allows you to export your games to various platforms, including Windows, macOS, Linux, HTML5, iOS, and Android, among others.

Alternatives

Unity: A popular game development engine known for its flexibility and strong 3D capabilities. It offers a comprehensive free version and a large community.

Unreal Engine: Another robust game engine, especially powerful for 3D game development. It is free to use with a royalty-based revenue model.

Construct 3: A user-friendly 2D game engine that also offers a drag-and-drop interface, ideal for beginners.

Godot: An open-source game engine that supports both 2D and 3D game development, known for its ease of use and active community.

RPG Maker: Tailored for creating role-playing games, this software provides specialized tools and a simple interface for RPG development.

Pricing

FREE