GDevelop is a free and open-source, no-code game engine designed to help anyone build 2D and simple 3D games. With a user-friendly interface, it allows developers to create complex game logic using an event-based system, without needing to write any code. It is widely popular for indie developers, educators, and hobbyists due to its ease of use and robust features.
Key Features
- Event-Based System: No programming required—create game mechanics using a drag-and-drop event system.
- Visual Scene Editor: Build game levels and layouts using a WYSIWYG editor.
- Multiplatform Export: Export games to multiple platforms, including desktop, web, and mobile.
- Behavior Library: Pre-built behaviors that allow for quick and easy game mechanics like platformer movement, physics, and more.
- Custom Extensions: Add functionality through community-made or custom extensions.
- In-Browser Development: Develop directly in your web browser without needing to install any software.
- Live Preview: Playtest games instantly with the live preview feature.
- Integrated Asset Store: Access a library of free assets, including sprites, sounds, and music.
Development Platform Support
- Windows
- macOS
- Linux
- Web Browser (GDevelop 5 can be run fully in-browser)
Development Programming Languages
- No-code (event-based system)
- JavaScript (for advanced users who want to add custom logic)
Supported Platforms
- Windows
- macOS
- Linux
- Android
- iOS
- HTML5/Web
- Facebook Instant Games
Ease of Use
GDevelop is one of the most beginner-friendly game engines available, especially for users with no coding experience. The event-based logic system is intuitive, making it accessible to complete beginners. Advanced users can also integrate JavaScript to add more custom features and logic.
Licensing & Costs
GDevelop offers both a free tier and paid plans. The free tier allows you to use most of the engine's features, including local exports and development. However, it comes with some limitations, such as restricted access to certain cloud features like one-click export and online builds.
- Free Tier: Includes all core features, local exports, and unlimited game development. Limits punlishing to Android/Desktop to once per day.
- Paid Plans: Pricing starts at $5.49/month, offering benefits such as online exports, game hosting, automatic builds for Android, and custom domain name for game hosting.
For more detailed pricing information, visit GDevelop Pricing.
Use Cases & Notable Games
GDevelop is commonly used for 2D games, from simple platformers to complex story-driven experiences. It’s especially useful for education, game jams, and hobbyist game development. Some successful indie games and educational games have been created with GDevelop.
Games to Check Out:
Example Use Cases
- Educational Games: GDevelop is often used by teachers to create interactive games or quizzes for students.
- Game Jams: Its rapid development cycle and easy export features make it ideal for game jams.
- Mobile Games: Simple mobile games can be developed and exported for both Android and iOS.
- Prototyping: GDevelop can be used to quickly prototype game ideas without getting into heavy code.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- No coding required, making it ideal for beginners.
- Completely free and open-source with no hidden fees.
- Multi-platform support, including direct web export.
- Rich community-driven library of extensions and assets.
- Lightweight, runs in a web browser as well as on desktop.
- Active and friendly community with plenty of tutorials and resources.
Cons:
- Limited 3D support; primarily a 2D-focused engine.
- Event system can become complex for very large projects.
- Lacks the depth of scripting found in more advanced engines like Unity or Godot.
- Not ideal for highly complex or graphically intense games.
How to Get Started
Community and Support
