GameMaker
GameMaker: A strong 2D export platform, with licensing and visual-scripting fit to evaluate carefully. Ranked #1 of 26 in Game Visual Scripting Software by our editors (9.3/10); pricing: Free plan; best for 2D developers prioritizing maximum export reach.
At a glance
- Editor score9.3 / 10
- PricingFree plan
- Best for2D developers prioritizing maximum export reach
- Free planYes
- Paid from$799.99/yr
- Facts checked24 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Exports to desktop, web, mobile, GX.games, and selected consoles
- Supports PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and Nintendo Switch publishing
- Free for non-commercial use with platform-specific SDK configuration
Where it doesn't
- Commercial publishing and some export targets require separate licensing
- A 2D focus may not suit teams seeking broader game-development scope
- Not the clearest choice for a visual-scripting-first workflow
Our verdict on GameMaker
GameMaker is a cross-platform 2D game development environment from YoYo Games Limited, designed for indie developers and commercial studios. It provides an integrated environment for building projects and supports compilation for Windows, macOS, web, iOS, Android, tvOS, GX.games, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and Nintendo Switch. That makes it a strong fit for 2D developers who want broad publishing reach from one project-oriented tool.
Its main strength is export coverage. The published capabilities include desktop, web, mobile, and console targets, with console publishing support for current major platforms listed as PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and Nintendo Switch. Platform-specific SDK and compiler configuration gives teams a defined path for adapting projects to each target, although that also means platform work remains part of the development process. The product’s scope is centered on 2D game creation, so teams seeking a wider development environment should weigh that focus against their project requirements.
GameMaker’s licensing model separates non-commercial access from commercial publishing: it is available free for non-commercial use, while commercial publishing and some export targets require separate licensing. The published product details emphasize the integrated environment, compilation targets, and export reach rather than a visual-scripting workflow, scripting-language support, or integration ecosystem. Developers prioritizing maximum platform coverage for 2D projects should consider GameMaker first; teams choosing primarily on visual scripting, integrations, or a broader scope should compare alternatives before committing.
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GameMaker pricing
All 3 GameMaker plans and prices →
GameMaker fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | $799.99/yr |
| 2D game support | Not verified |
| 3D game support | Not verified |
| Export targets | Not verified |
| Code integration | Not verified |
| Collaboration features | Not verified |
| Runtime licensing | Not verified |
| Deployment | Desktop |
| Platforms | Windows, macOS, Linux |
| Support | Community, Docs, Tickets |
| Built for | Solo, Small business, Mid-market, Enterprise (editorial estimate) |
| Integrations | 4 integrations: Namazu Elements, Colyseus, Steamworks, Photon (coming soon) |
| Pricing | Free plan (source) |
| Website | gamemaker.io |
| Facts checked | 24 Sep 2026 |
GameMaker integrations
GameMaker lists 4 integrations on its own site.
- Namazu Elements
- Colyseus
- Steamworks
- Photon (coming soon)
Alternatives to GameMaker
- Construct 3A flexible 2D engine for cross-platform creators who need visual logic and multiplayer tools.9.1
- Clickteam Fusion 2.5A mature free-first 2D tool with broad export options and paid add-ons.8.9
- GameSaladA focused no-code tool for creating and publishing 2D games across web and mobile.8.7
See all GameMaker alternatives →
GameMaker vs the competition
- GameMaker vs Construct 3
- GameMaker vs Clickteam Fusion 2.5
- GameMaker vs GameSalad
- GameMaker vs GDevelop
- GameMaker vs Stencyl
- GameMaker vs Dreams
Compare GameMaker with any tool side by side →
Also Ranked In
GameMaker is ranked in 5 of our directories.
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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