Slant community chat on DiscoursePro Open source and completely free
GDevelop is free and open source, and anyone can enhance the software via the GitHub repository.
Pro Powerful events system
No need for coding using this system which is clear and powerful: events are composed of conditions and actions. Actions are launched when conditions are fulfilled. This is a very friendly way of making games and is still efficient for advanced usage, contrary to most other "block"/"...
Con No cross-compiler
The Windows and Linux versions of GDevelop can each compile a native application; but the Windows version cannot compile for Linux, nor vice versa.
Pro Growing number of asset creation software titles offering direct export to RPG Maker
SONAR Steam Edition exports RPG Maker clips, and Spriter Pro has confirmed they'll work directly with RPG Maker developers to get Spriter Playback integrated into RPG Maker.
Pro Easy to jump into using an intuitive WYSIWYG editor
It's possible to create a game with absolutely no art or coding skills, so even complete beginners can make something.
Pro Large and active community
The engine has seen multiple iterations since 1995, so a large online community exists that is always willing to help each other out.
Con Free version is limited
Construct 2 Free is not licensed for commercial use. It also limits a project to 100 events, along with other technical restrictions.
Pro Very easy to learn
It has an easy drag and drop interface were you can drag an image from your computer directly into construct 2 to import it. After you import something you can easily add atributes to it; such as platformer which lets you control the object with your arrow keys.
Pro Easy to use
You can make a game in 30 minutes from start (it may not be perfect). There are so many video tutorials and many helpful users.
Con Annual subscription model
Publication to desktop targets requires an active Indie Stencyl subscription, priced at $99/yr. Mobile targets require Studio Stencyl at $199/yr.
Pro Block-based visual scripting resembles real code
Visual scripting in Stencyl is based on the MIT Scratch project, which was designed to teach programming. Script elements fit together like puzzle pieces, ensuring that data and function types cannot be mismatched.
Pro Easy transition between visual scripting and Haxe code
The visual scripting system is internally translated to Haxe. The resulting scripts can be viewed and edited, and there is also a "code block" object for including raw Haxe in visual scripts. This is great for learning to code, and also for advanced users who can further optimize the scr...
Pro Built-in particle effects
You can create simple particle effects with control over gravity, color variance and blend modes.
Pro Easy to learn
Buildbox is a drag and drop engine, making it easy for beginners to pick up. There are many tutorials available to help get you started.
Con Really restricting
You have to base your games heavily on their pre-made templates. You can't create custom behaviours, events, object types or effects you can only slightly tweak the existing ones.
Con Difficult to learn
GameMaker: Studio isn't the most friendly for beginners. It can be difficult figuring out how to get started, and the limited drag'n'drop feature means you'll likely have to use/learn some programming to create the game you want.
Con Complicated user interface
User interface is quite complicated and takes time to get used to.
Con Drag'n'drop coding is limited
GameMaker's drag'n'drop language is limited and some things can be done only using code.
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