Construct, also known as Scirra Ltd., is an HTML5-based 2D video game engine primarily designed for non-programmers. It enables rapid game development through visual programming using DirectX and NW.js technology, with Python and JavaScript programming.
Looking for alternatives to Construct? Consider Three.js, WebGL, WebGL 2, WebVR, WebXR, OpenXR, React Three Fiber, p5.js, Pixi.js, Babylon.js, A-Frame, X3DOM, Deck.gl, and VTK.js.
Construct 3
Born from the vision of Scirra Ltd, Construct 3 is an immaculate HTML5-based 2D video game engine, that beautifully marries accessibility to advanced development. This robust tool, accessible on any device with offline use support, manifests games from the canvas of imagination, empowering both budding code enthusiasts and professional developers. Its prominent steadfast foothold amongst indie developers, educational institutions, and over 400 schools across 48 US states elucidates its intuitive allure.
Construct 3 Top Features
- Craft games with innovative visual programming weaved around ‘event sheets’.
- Embrace the flexibility of cross-device accessibility, including offline use support.
- Polish your game graphics with an in-built pixel editor and myriad behaviors support.
- Exports games into web apps or HTML wrappers without native exporters, acknowledging the pulsating heart of technological innovation.
- Experience a transformative shift from downloadable PC product to web-based application, as we journey from Construct 2 to Construct 3.
- Strengthen your codes with recent JavaScript integration.
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Event blocks | Enables swift in-game development without hefty codes. |
| Strong HTML5 support | Ensures excellent compatibility with major browsers. |
| Data privacy compliance | Ensuring safety with CCPA, GDPR, and COPPA compliance. |
Construct 3 Limitations
- Limited capability in creating large-sized video games.
- Not viable for 3D game development.
- No native exporting or offline application support like GameMaker.
- Dependent on device support for exporting HTML5 and web content.
Construct 3 Pricing
Scirra graciously offers a free license version of Construct 3 along with a premium version, starting at $99/year for a personal plan that is steeped in deeper features and nuances.
Construct 3 Use Cases
Use case 1 – For Indie Developers
Construct 3 has an intuitive interface and swift game creation capabilities, making it an ideal companion for indie developers to kick start and evolve their creativity, effortlessly.
Use case 2 – For Educators
With its ease-of-use and elegant programming process, Construct 3 emboldens educators to bring comprehensive coursework alive, encouraging students to traverse the intriguing realm of game development.
Use case 3 – For Schools
Schools, especially those in regions with limited internet connectivity, can foster a stimulating coding curriculum all thanks to Construct 3’s pristine features that support offline use and easy programming. As a download-friendly platform, Construct 3 ensures learning never stops.
GDevelop
Immerse yourself in the charm of GDevelop, an open-source, cross-platform game engine developed by a Google software engineer! Bring your vision to life without a single line of code or go full throttle with the event-based visual programming. It’s the chocolate factory for game developers – available and customizable for all, from curious beginners to seasoned programmers.
GDevelop Top Features
- Language Ambidextrous: Suitable for non-programmers and experienced coders alike.
- Platform Flexibility: Compatible with Windows, macOS, Linux; operates like a boss on the web browser.
- Publishing Prolific: Publish games to PC, Web, and Mobile platforms with ease!
- Educational Affinity: It’s popular in Gamucation (Game Education). Used widely from primary schools to university courses.
- Advanced 3D Graphics: Offers features for creating mesmerizing 3D graphics and animations making your game a visual delight.
| Beneficial For | Learning Outcomes |
|---|---|
| Students keen on game design tools techniques, terminology. | Comprehension of coordinate planes, variables, coding logic in game design. |
| Aspiring developers exploring project planning, testing, publishing, game reviewing. | Fundamental understanding of UI, UX, and end program results. |
| Advanced users looking to customize and contribute to GDevelop’s development. | Freedom to modify almost anything in the program supports creative exploration and innovative solutions. |
GDevelop Limitations
- Despite the freedom it offers, advanced users might face slower development and less stability. (But hey! Life is all about balancing, right?)
GDevelop Pricing
Hold your breath, because GDevelop is absolutely free. Yes, you heard that right! Construct 3 might hit your pocket with a license fee, but who cares? You have the caterer to creativity right here and, it won’t cost you a dime!
GDevelop Use Cases
Use case 1 – Students eager to learn game design
GDevelop acts like a catalyst, helping students to learn game design tools techniques, get acquainted with terminology, and understand coordinate planes, variables, coding logic in game design.
Use case 2- Developing learning/serious games
Designing games intended to educate or induce behavioral change? GDevelop offers the perfect platform with its focus on advanced features and intuitive design.
Use case 3- Aspiring game developers
GDevelop serves as the perfect playground for wannabe game developers looking to learn the ropes while building their own fantasy world.
GameMaker
Founded in 1999, GameMaker is a 2D game engine renowned for its simplicity, scalability, and tools. It’s loved by novice and professional developers and has been the engine behind games like Undertale, Forager, and Chicory: A Colorful Tale.
GameMaker Top Features
- Scalability: From beginners to professionals, everyone can use GameMaker. It caters to the needs of various developer categories.
- Extensive Tools: GameMaker offers Syntax Highlighting, Intellisense support, and the ability to support more languages within the Code Editor, like Shader Languages, JSON, and XML.
- Constant Updates: Garners feedback and implements new features and maintenance regularly to improve the engine’s performance.
- Integration: GameMaker is planning to integrate AI through a partnership with OpenAI, aiming to simplify even the game-making process.
| Features | Year of Implementation |
|---|---|
| New Code Editor | Expected in 2023 |
| AI Support | Expected in 2023 |
| Enhanced Modding Capabilities | Expected in 2023 |
GameMaker Disadvantages
- Tiers: The free tier may not offer all the features and export options available in the Creator, Indie, and Enterprise tiers.
- Limited to 2D Games: GameMaker primarily focuses on 2D game development, limiting the scope for developers wanting to create 3D games.
GameMaker Pricing
GameMaker offers four pricing tiers: Free, Creator (targeted for game development career on desktop stores), Indie (for game release with multiple export options), and Enterprise (for studio releases on major consoles).
GameMaker Use Cases
Use case 1
Indie Game Developers: With its scalability and simplicity, GameMaker is the engine of choice for indie game developers. Its suite of extensive tools and constant updates help them deliver a myriad of game ideas.
Use case 2
Educational Purposes: GameMaker is an excellent resource for teaching game development because of its simplicity and community-driven nature. It helps learners understand the full cycle of game development.
Use case 3
Professionals Developing 2D Games: GameMaker serves as a handy tool for professionals in the game development industry, who want to quickly create and release 2D games across multiple platforms.
Clickteam Fusion
The game and software creation powerhouse, Clickteam Fusion 2.5, streamlines the development process like no other. Conceived by French programmers and utilized in smash hit games such as Five Nights at Freddy’s, it negates the need for intricate coding.
Clickteam Fusion’s Distinguished Features
- Intuitive Design: Simplistic operation opens game development to everyone, not just professional programmers.
- Multiple Target Platforms: Craft for the likes of Windows, iOS, Android, Flash, and XNA. Maximize your reach by capitalizing on the optional exporters.
- Box2d Physics Integration: Builds believable, immersive gameplay environments.
- Cross-Platform Publishing: Enhancement to the one-size-fits-all approach of creating apps.
| Advanced Features | Fusion 2.5 released DLC expanding abilities with child events, DirectX11 support, and debugging features. |
| Imprint on Gaming | Iconic games have been built with Clickteam tools, as coincided by Five Nights at Freddy’s series, Freedom Planet, and Trap Adventure 2. |
| Dynamic Modules | Supports runtime export modules such as Adobe Flash, iOS, XNA, Android, HTML5, UWP, MacOS. |
Clickteam Fusion’s Cogs in the Wheel
- System requirements can limit users, specifically on Mac OS X 10.15.
- Discontinuation of the Vitalize! browser plugin removes one potential engagement avenue.
Clickteam Fusion Pricing
This detail, however, varies and can be found on Clickteam Fusion’s official website.
Use Cases for Clickteam Fusion
Use Case 1
If you’re dreaming of creating the next viral mobile game, Clickteam Fusion broadens your possibility horizon. Its support for iOS and Android means you can readily transport your creations to the two most populous app stores.
Use Case 2
For educational institutions, this tool’s simplicity and the provision of an educational freeware version makes it an ideal entry point into the world of game development.
Use Case 3
Pro developers or ambitious hobbyists can capitalize on its extensive features, DirectX 11 support, and optional exporters. This allows one to work and publish on multiple platforms, and most importantly, have full control over the desired complexity.
Unity
Launched in 2005, Unity is a versatile game development engine, highly favored for creating sophisticated 2D and 3D games. It is particularly prominent for its cross-platform capabilities, embracing not just Android and iOS, but also multiple other operating systems. It crucially fosters applications ranging from Augmented Reality to intricate 3D simulations.
Unity Top Features
- Robust suite of tools facilitating high-quality game creation
- State-of-the-art rendering technology
- Adaptive to numerous operating systems
- Compelling cross-platform game launches
- Support for multiple coding languages including BOO script, Javascript, and C#
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Integrated asset store | Provides an array of pre-designed textures and features to boost creativity in game design |
| Active developer community | Facilitates assistance, problem-solving, and constructive feedback for system enhancement |
| Persistent tech innovation | Advances user-friendly, compatible, and immersive visual experiences |
Unity Limitations
- Proposed per-install fee model could threaten the financial sustainability of solo and indie developers
- Diminished trust due to unannounced changes in pricing
- Concerns about potential abuse of per-install fees
- Discontinued Unity Plus subscription tier
Unity Pricing
Unity’s pricing model traditionally includes a Free and Pro version, each offering ample features. The new pricing structure into effect from January 1, 2024, involves developers paying a fee each time a game using Unity software is installed. This structure, however, exempts developers from the install fee until their game surpasses $200,000 in revenue and 200,000 installations.
Unity Use Cases
Mobile Game Development
Unity uniquely crafts compelling mobile games, supported by its robust cross-platform capabilities, adaptable OS support, and user-friendly crafting tools. Great emphasis is placed on enabling developers to craft attention-grabbing games for Android, iOS, and other platforms.
3D Simulations
With its superior rendering ability, Unity stands as an ideal choice for creating dynamic 3D simulations. Its high-quality suite of tools and availability of vast pre-designed textures pave the way to create intricate, visually-stunning 3D simulations.
Augmented Reality/Virtual Reality (AR/VR) Games
Unity strongly empowers the development of AR/VR games, backed by its advanced technology and comprehensive feature suite. Ensuring compatibility and offering immersive experiences, Unity is a frontrunner in the AR/VR gaming landscape.
Phaser
Delve into Phaser, an innovative 2D game framework geared towards the development of HTML5 games for your desktop or mobile platforms. Crafted by Richard Davey and first released in April 2013, Phaser utilizes robust technology for an immersive gaming experience.
Phaser Top Features
- Javascript and TypeScript based framework, making it accessible and user-friendly for experienced developers.
- The usage of Canvas and WebGL renderer for speedy rendering for a smooth gaming experience. It auto-switches based on browser support.
- Capable of deploying games on iOS, Android and even native desktop apps through the use of tools like Apache Cordova and PhoneGap.
- Phaser has seen continuous development, with Phaser 3 improving upon its predecessor by featuring a custom WebGL renderer and a modular structure. As of now, Phaser 4 is in development, promising even more advanced features.
- It comes with multiple physics systems including Arcade Physics, Ninja Physics, and P2.JS catering to diverse game development requirements.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| 1800+ Examples | A vast array of examples to help expedite your game development process. |
| Compatible with Browsers | Operates with any browser that supports canvas element. |
| Phaser Mini-Degree | Rated as high-quality and beginner-friendly, ideal for learning this platform. |
Phaser Limitations
- Not suitable for 3D game development as it caters primarily to 2D game frameworks.
- Although Phaser supports various platforms, the game’s performance might vary depending on the platform.
Phaser Pricing
Phaser is an open-source software, making it free for usage. This allows anyone to dive into and explore its potential without any financial constraints.
Phaser Use Cases
Use Case 1: Indie Game Developers
For indie game developers looking to create engaging 2D games, Phaser’s extensive features and active community support contribute to effecient development and publishing processes.
Use Case 2: Educators
Teachers in tech-oriented classrooms can use Phaser as a teaching tool. The user-friendly framework encourages beginners to grasp the basics of game development.
Use Case 3: Web Games
Phaser provides an excellent platform for developing HTML5 web games due to its compatibility with various platforms and devices.
Godot
Enter the world of Godot, an open-source game engine celebrated by developers globally. With its intuitive, scene-driven design its allows the creation of games from basic building blocks, or nodes, that can be combined to create complex, full-featured components.
Godot Top Features
- Open-source game engine with an intuitive scene-driven design. Allows games to be built from simple blocks and nodes for elaborate, reusable scenarios.
- Built-in scripting language GDscript with tight engine integration for streamlined game logic, further supported by optional static typing.
- Supports C# for .NET platform, with .NET only available for desktop platforms in Godot 4.
- Offers specialized 2D workflow for games and apps, and a 3D engine capable of supporting high and low-end devices.
- Direct import of Blender files. No need for conversions or plugins.
| Additional Features | Details |
|---|---|
| Community Support | Language bindings like Rust, Nim, Python available through the community. |
| Official C++ Support | Included in 4.0 with the GDExtension API. |
| Licensing | Free under the MIT license, with no hidden fees or contracts. |
Godot Limitations
- Not suitable for complex 3D game development.
- .NET platform support is only available for desktop platforms in Godot 4.
Godot Pricing
As an open-source platform, Godot is completely free under the MIT license, meaning there are no licensing fees, contracts, or hidden costs.
Godot Use Cases
Use case 1: Aspiring Game Developers
With it’s intuitive scene-driven design and powerful scripting language, Godot provides an ideal platform for aspiring game developers to learn the ropes and create their own games.
Use case 2: 2D Game Development
Godot offers a specialized 2D workflow ideal for developers looking to create 2D games and applications.
Use case 3: Experienced Developers Looking for Flexibility
With support for C++, C#, and other languages, along with high-level customization options, Godot is a flexible engine for both learning and professional game development.
